COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOSTER, RHODE ISLAND – 2017-2037

!

May 2017

Executive Summary Page 1 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOSTER, RHODE ISLAND 2017-2037

TOWN COUNCIL Denise DiFranco, President Chris Stone, Vice President Michael Dillon Cheryl Hawes Gordon Rogers

PLANNING BOARD Joseph Carey, Chair Richard Sparks, Vice Chair Helen Hardy, Secretary Michael Carpenter Jeff Sheldon Anthony Renzi Ron Cervasio

Planning Department ______, Town Planner

Consultant Team David R. Westcott, AICP DRAFTNancy E. Letendre, Esq., AICP Benjamin Delaney TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 FOSTER TODAY ...... 1 PUBLIC SURVEY ...... 1 COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING IN FOSTER ...... 3 NATURAL RESOURCES, CONSERVATION & RECREATION ...... 7 INTRODUCTION ...... 7 RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER CHAPTERS ...... 7 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 8 NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS MAP...... 8 WATER RESOURCES ...... 12 Map XX shows water resources in Foster. Two-thirds of Foster drains to the Scituate Reservoir, a regional public water supply. Both inside and outside the reservoir's watershed are valuable streams and rivers that are important to the town's scenic qualities and natural habitats. All residents rely on groundwater for potable water. Many of these water resources are connected; all can be threatened by inappropriate development or poorly designed or maintained septic systems. Although the water quality in the town is generally good, there have been localized problem areas (groundwater contamination) and indications of potential problems (apparent degradation of ponds). Federal, State, and local agencies regulate many of the resources and constraints. However, current regulations, including local regulations, should be improved to provide better protection of the natural resources. Federal and State regulations may not always be applied or enforced consistently. Many of the Town's current regulations do not apply to frontage development or do not focus on protecting specific resources...... 12 NATURAL RESOURCES AND NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS ...... 12 EXISTING CONSERVATION AREAS ...... 15 CONSERVATION REGULATIONS ...... 17 Current Regulations and Programs ...... 17 RECREATIONAL RESOURCES ...... 18 Recreation Programs...... 20 NATURAL RESOURCE ASSESSMENT ...... 21 STATEWIDE AND LOCAL ISSUES ...... 21 Water Resource Protection ...... 21 Agricultural Land ...... 21 Degrading Natural Resources ...... 24 OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION & RECREATION ...... 25 Priorities for Conservation of Natural Resources ...... 25 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS CONCERNING NATURAL RESOURCES ...... 27 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES ...... 32 INTRODUCTION ...... 32 CURRENT CONDITIONS ...... 32 ACTIVE PRESERVATION ...... 32 NATIONALLY REGISTERED HISTORIC PLACES ...... 34 ADDITIONAL PLACES OF SIGNIFICANCE ...... 36 PROJECTED CONDITIONS ...... 40 ANTICIPATED ACCOMPLISHMENTS ...... 40 FUTURE CHALLENGES ...... 41 ASSESSMENT OF PROJECTED CONDITIONS ...... 42 COMMUNITY VALUE ...... 42 ECONOMIC VALUE ...... 43

i

OVERLAY ZONING ...... 44 GUIDE AND MANAGEMENT PLANS ...... 44 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS ...... 46 POPULATION ...... 50 INTRODUCTION ...... 50 CURRENT CONDITIONS ...... 50 DEMOGRAPHICS ...... 50 HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS ...... 52 PROJECTED CONDITIONS ...... 53 POPULATION PROJECTIONS, 2015-2040 ...... 53 DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES, 2015-2040 ...... 54 ASSESSMENT OF PROJECTED CONDITIONS ...... 55 CHANGES IN HOUSEHOLDS ...... 55 COMMUNITY SERVICES & FACILITIES ...... 56 INTRODUCTION ...... 56 Relationship to Other Chapters ...... 57 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 57 Municipal Administration ...... 57 PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT...... 58 Department of Public Works ...... 61 School Systems ...... 61 Human Services ...... 63 Solid Waste Disposal ...... 64 ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES ...... 65 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS CONCERNING COMMUNITY SERVICES & FACILITIES .. 66 NATURAL HAZARDS ...... 70 INTRODUCTION ...... 70 RELATIONSHIP TO THE HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN ...... 70 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 70 FLOODING ...... 71 Hurricanes & Tornadoes ...... 72 WINTER STORMS ...... 73 DROUGHT ...... 73 EXTREME TEMPERATURES ...... 74 EARTHQUAKES ...... 74 CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 75 RISK PRIOITIZATION ...... 75 NATURAL HAZARD AREAS MAP ...... 81 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS ...... 82 TRANSPORTATION NETWORK ...... 85 INTRODUCTION ...... 85 Relationship to Other ChaptersDRAFT ...... 85 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 86 Road Network ...... 86 Commuting Patterns ...... 88 Storm Water Management ...... 89 Bridges ...... 89 Traffic Controls ...... 89 Traffic Volumes ...... 90 Accidents ...... 90 Public Transportation ...... 90 ASSESSMENT OF FOSTER’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK ...... 91 Statewide Issues ...... 91

ii

Transportation Issues Affecting Foster ...... 91 ROAD AND BRIDGE PLAN ...... 91 OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK .... 93 Regional Opportunities ...... 93 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS ...... 95 GROWING ECONOMY ...... 99 INTRODUCTION ...... 99 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 99 EMPLOYMENT ...... 99 PROJECTED CONDITIONS ...... 105 ASSESSMENT OF CONDITIONS ...... 107 Issues Affecting Economic Growth in Foster ...... 107 Regional Opportunities ...... 107 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS ...... 109 HOUSING OPPORTUNITY ...... 112 INTRODUCTION ...... 112 EXISTING CONDITIONS ...... 112 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT ...... 112 HOUSEHOLDS AND TENURE ...... 114 HOUSING AFFORDABILITY ...... 115 Contributors to Cost Burden ...... 117 LMI HOUSING ...... 119 PROJECTED CONDITIONS ...... 121 FUTURE HOUSEHOLDS AND HOUSING STOCK ...... 121 AFFORDABILITY IN 2040 ...... 122 LMI Housing ...... 123 ASSESSMENT OF CONDITIONS ...... 124 MANAGING GROWTH ...... 124 HOUSING CONDITIONS ...... 125 AFFORDABLE HOUSING ...... 125 LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOUSING PRODUCTION...... 125 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS ...... 129 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM ...... 133 DRAFT

iii Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

“Foster is rich in resources; historic houses, farmsteads, roads and mill ruins, and in the natural beauty of its setting; brooks, waterfalls, woods, swamps, and the plant and animal life they shelter. All of these resources are fragile, and most of them are non-renewable. All of them are threatened by development.

The Town’s rugged topography, generally poor soil, and small–scale streams, coupled with its isolated location twenty (20) miles west of Providence, have largely determined its historical and physical development, delaying the initial colonial settlement until about 1704 and town incorporation until 1781 and contributing to a period of decline and out migration which lasted from the late 1820s until the early 1950s.The location of the Town within easy automobile commuting distance to Providence and major employment centers has brought significant development pressure in the last decade.

The face of Foster’s landscape has changed dramatically in the last two hundred years. Originally covered with hardwood forests, Foster, by the early nineteenth century was almost totally cleared, a result of both agricultural endeavors and forest processing industries. Today much of the land has reverted to forest, and only the seemingly endless stone walls leading away from the roads, numerous scrub-grown cellar holes, and old photographs showing hayfields instead of trees indicate the extent of the change.

These hamlets and villages were linked to each other by a series of roads which turned and jogged around natural features; wetlands, rock outcroppings and farmer’s fields. Many of these roads have resisted modern straightening and about a third of them remain one lane wide and still unpaved; others are a minimal two lanes wide. Most are lined with stone walls and edged either by open fields or, more often, by fern – and wild flower – filled woods. They exist in relation to the land much as they did when first laid out in the last half of the eighteenth century (1700s).”

– Foster, Rhode Island: Statewide Historical Preservation Report P-F-1 (1982)

FOSTER TODAY Though the pace of development has quickened in recent decades, change in the Town of Foster has occurred at a much slower pace than the rest of the county and state. This alone accounts for the richness and importance of Foster’s sense of place. It is not hard to view the entire town as an important and unique cultural landscape which retains the image and feel of an earlier time. This description is meaningful in that it is these qualities which Foster residents value more than others.

PUBLIC SURVEY Change, then, did not occur until recently. This alone, accounts for the richness and importance of Foster’s sense of place. It is not hard to view the entire town as an important and unique cultural landscape which retains the image and feel of an earlier time of rural tranquility and quietness. This description is meaningful in that it is these qualities which Foster residents value more than others.

Executive Summary Page 1

As in the prior developments of the Comprehensive Plan a survey was sent out to Foster residents. Two hundred and forty-nine (249) citizens participated in the 2012 Survey that is part of the history and tradition of our Town. The survey was reviewed and prepared by the Planning Board, town employees and volunteers as an important part of our Comprehensive Plan’s development.

The following is a summary of the community’s responses to the nineteen questions included in the survey. The complete survey details are in the appendix for general review of those interested.

1. Less than 2% (two percent) of the residents of Foster rent;

2. Most Foster residents moved here within the last forty (40) years;

3. We are mostly parents and a couple of kids;

4. We proudly identify with the historical communities we live in;

5. All of us like having a piece of land here in the country where people leave us alone;

6. That’s why we plan to spend at least seven (7) years to a lifetime here;

7. We support education and the arts and dislike government, taxes, development and traffic;

8. The only reason we would move is if we can retire to a warmer climate or can’t afford our property;

9. We fear the loss of freedom generated by land ownership;

10. Foster residents consider farmland and wildlife most important; and farmland, wildlife and open space as our most threatened commodities;

11. We feel that Foster leadership should encourage moderate, managed growth;

12. Successful businesses in Foster should serve as a model for developing businesses;

13. Foster residents want Foster leadership to follow the comprehensive plan;

14. Most everyone likes the new General Business / Mixed Use zoning along Route 6; 15. We view ourselves asDRAFT a rural community, sustained by volunteers and connected by dirt roads;

16. There is an aggressive interest in alternative energy as long as it is regulated and serves the best interests of the community;

17. We are generally pleased with our qualities of life;

18. We would like to see road and bridge improvement;

2

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING IN FOSTER The first Comprehensive Plan for the Town was created in 1964 and was succeeded by the second Comprehensive Plan, which was completed in 1982. With the passage of the Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Act of 1989, however, the comprehensive planning process became more significant. The third Comprehensive Plan was completed in 1991 with the help of The Newport Collaborative, Inc., Vanasse Hangen Bristlin; Pare Engineering Corporation; Burk Ketcham and Associates; and Mount Vernon Associates. The 1991 Town Council, Planning Board and a Citizens Advisory Committee were all involved in the development of the 1991 plan. The fourth Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 2003 and completed by the Planning Board with consultation from the Conservation Commission, Foster Preservation Society, the Public Works Director, other Town boards and Officials, and interested citizens. In both 2004 and 2006, this Plan was amended when the Town Council approved, and then merged the Foster Affordable Housing Plan into the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Neighborhoods element.

Between the 1991 and the 2003 plans, various land use improvements called for in the 1991 plan were accomplished. Perhaps most notably was the implementation of the Residential Compound Zoning Ordinance in February 1998. Some action items prior to the 2003 Plan included, but was not limited to, the construction of the South Foster Fire Station and the renovation of the Department of Public Works garage.

This current Comprehensive Plan is different from previous Comprehensive Plans as this Comprehensive Plan was developed and written to meet the new statewide requirements listed in the new Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Act (R.I.G.L. 45-22.2, et seq.) instituted in 2011 and 2012. Some of the changes the State instituted include a longer planning horizon of twenty (20) years –and the requirement that goals, objectives, policies and action items are reviewed every ten (10) years; however, the Town always has an option to update its plan on a more frequent basis.

STATUS OF PREVIOUS GOALS Looking back to previous plans, one can see that the Town of Foster has managed to fulfill many of the major goals that were laid out. Between 1991 and 2003, various land use innovations called for in the 1991 plan were accomplished; most notable was the implementation of the Residential Compound Zoning Ordinance in February 1998. Some action items prior to the 2003 Comprehensive Plan included, but were not limited to, the construction of the South Foster Fire Station and the renovation of the Department of Public Works (DPW) garage. DRAFT

The success of this current plan and all prior plans lies with the various members of the Town Council and Planning Board, the Town Planner, and many volunteers. Residents have utilized the various boards and organizations to keep the sense of place of Foster while. This has been done while maintaining adherence to sound development practices, allowing for the potential of value-added agricultural homesteads and accompanying support services. The following is a status update on these goals.

Planning Official (Town Planner)

3

In November 2006, local voters approved the position of Planning Official (Town Planner) to be included in the Town Charter. Under the Charter, the position’s responsibilities include maintenance of the Comprehensive Plan, the Zoning Ordinance, the Subdivision Ordinance, the Five-Year Highway Plan, short- and long-range planning, and such other duties as may be prescribed by the state or town. Shortly thereafter (May 2007), the community voted to bring the position to full time status. During the economic downturn in the late 2000s and early 2010s however, the Town Council voted to limit the number of hours the Town Planner may work to 20 per week. It is hoped that the Planner will eventually be returned to full time status.

Route 6 Rezoning Parcels along Danielson Pike (Route 6) were rezoned in September 2009 to a nodal type planned commercial development district after four years of research by the Planning Board which included town-wide input from multiple organizations, taxpayers and property owners. The purpose behind this change was to enhance community-oriented businesses in a compatible area rather than develop strip malls or large scale retail places. The Highway Commercial zone was largely succeeded by a new General Business / Mixed Use zoning district. General Business Mixed Use allows usage of the total parcel in question and allows a combination of businesses and residential uses on one parcel.

Conservation Development The Planning Board has worked to create conservation development for both subdivision regulations and the Zoning Ordinance. This will allow for defensible incentives to stabilize future growth, work within the frameworks of Affordable Housing Plans, Statewide and local, while continuing keeping the environmentally sensitive lands of the Town in their natural state.

Subdivision Regulations and Zoning Ordinances The Planning Board must bring subdivision regulations and zoning ordinances into compliance with this Plan. Recently, there has been a widening in allowed uses related to small cottage type industries. The hope is that as these small businesses are established and developed, they will enhance the independence of individual homesteads while strengthening the historical community hamlets that presently exist.

Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC) When the EDAC was first created, the intent was to make this commission a strong force for change in the business development structure. As a volunteer board, however, it has been difficult for the EDAC to DRAFTact in such a capacity. Most, if not all, responsibilities of the EDAC have now been assigned to the Planning Official (Town Planner) due in part to the networking capabilities of this position and the need to have someone limit the Town’s liability.

Foster Land Trust The Foster Land Trust (FLT) has been very active over the past years, resulting in over 900 acres now under various management plans, its direct supervision, or collaborative plans with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), the Nature Conservancy, or the Audubon Society. A major emphasis has been on growing the Rhode Island Greenway area. Several volunteer groups work with the Foster Land Trust to maintain the North-South

4

Trail, equestrian paths, and hiking trails for passive recreation. Many of the areas have significant environmental values and will be protected into the future.

Emergency Shelter The Town installed a generator in Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School to allow students to shelter in place during times of turbulent weather. With the installation of the generator, the Town was also able to certify the school as a Red Cross Emergency Shelter.

Affordable Housing Foster and the local community still must work towards the goal of providing affordable, quality housing for low and moderate income (LMI) families and individuals. While plans have been previously developed for the construction of a second deed-restricted affordable housing development, the purchase of the proposed site has not been completed.

Department of Human Services While working towards affordable housing, the Town also serves its LMI and senior populations through its Department of Human Services (DHS). This department runs a food bank and provides emergency housing and heating assistance to residents in need, among other services. Portions of these programs are funded through Community Development Block Grants (CDBGs) which Foster, as a non-entitlement community, may apply for to the state. The Town of Foster continues to consider this funding a primary and important source to assist the community.

Libraries Following a vote in October 2007, the previously independent Foster Public Library and Tyler Free Library merged as the Libraries of Foster. In the decade that has passed, the organization has been seeking a central location to better combine the two libraries’ resources and services. This project is supported by the community.

Youth Athletic Field An athletic field aimed at providing recreation opportunities specifically for children and teenagers has been designed as a multi-phase project while the site for the field has been designated. Approval of the Green Economy Bond by the state electorate in 2016 has ensured funding will be allocated to the project for its establishment. The first phase is expected to begin in 2017.

Police Department (FPD) The local police force increasedDRAFT by two officers (from eight to ten) in December 2013 while the police station has received upgrades to improve its energy efficiency. A building committee has also awarded a bid for the drafting of plans to construct a new police station. In recent years, the department has been successful in acquiring excess property from the United States Department of Defense (DoD) made available through the 1033 program (also known as the Law Enforcement Support Office [LESO] program). This program allows Foster’s Police Department to apply for equipment, including machinery and vehicles, to assist in its public safety operations. When a piece of equipment surpasses its useful life for law enforcement activity (it is expected that the useful life of all equipment will be at least one

5

year from the date of acquisition), it is possible to transfer the apparatus or material to the Department of Public Works.

Department of Public Works (DPW) Facilities for the Department of Public Works (DPW), most notably its garage, have been updated through renovations. A salt shed has also been constructed to allow for better clearing of roadways during winter weather events for bicyclists and motor vehicle operators. As noted above, DPW has also recently received some equipment from the Police Department that is no longer needed for law enforcement.

Though Foster has come a long way since the writing of its first Comprehensive Plan, there is still much that needs to be completed. This Plan provides a road map to where Foster should be in 2037.

DRAFT

6

NATURAL RESOURCES, CONSERVATION & RECREATION

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ EXISTING CONDITIONS

❖ INVENTORY MAPS

❖ ASSESSMENTS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION

Foster’s natural resources consist of surface and groundwater, wetlands, woodland, and shallow bedrock. These resources provide scenic and recreational space and a variety of plant and animal habitat. Foster’s woodlands and wetlands protect the headwaters of four distinct drainage basins, ensuring abundant clean water supplies for both the Town of Foster and communities supplied by the Thames, Pawtuxet, Quinebaug, and Scituate Reservoir watersheds. The latter of these is especially important as it serves as the primary water supply for over 530,000 residents in the state. This chapter identifies the natural resources of Foster, describes the issues faced in protecting them, and the town’s existing and planned goals and policies.

Forests and farms are essential to the rural character of Foster. Foster is blessed with a cacophony of sounds produced by activities related to forestry and farming, hunting and the native animal inhabitants. There is very little other auditory pollution. The town’s precious natural resources provide the context for this country quiet and therefore it is important to protect this distinct environmental quality. Foster’s quality environment is also largely free of light pollution. Foster has one of the best dark sky environments in the northeastern United States, allowing excellent astronomical observation. For this reason, Jerimoth Hill – Rhode Island’s highest natural point (812 feet) – has been used by Brown University as an area for astronomical observation. As dark skies are relatively rare in the state and southern New England, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management successfully acquired the property in autumn 2014 for future protection. Brown University will continue to be allowed use of a portion of Jerimoth Hill for astronomical studies until at least 2065.

RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER CHAPTERS Foster’s natural resources are essential to economic development opportunities for the community. The primary natural resource-based economic activity for Foster is agriculture. This Comprehensive Plan considers natural resource based economic activity in Chapter // is feasible and desired, and incorporates this priority economy in the Future Land Use Plan (Chapter //).

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 7

Fresh water is another natural resource which is a priority of this Plan in terms of its availability and quality. Foster’s continued efforts to preserve the community’s natural resources are necessary for the long-term sustainability of a potable water supply; the natural systems within the town, as might be expected, are all related and connected. Natural resource preservation is discussed in Chapter // as it applies to conserving areas that will support water quality and water supply goals.

The protection of natural resources from natural hazards is an essential component of this Comprehensive Community Plan. In Natural Hazards (Chapter //), this Plan describes the potential effects of natural hazards on Foster’s natural resources and the way Foster is planning for these eventual changes.

EXISTING CONDITIONS Foster’s natural resource strengths consist of its agricultural land, water resources, forests, wildlife habitat, open space and scenic views, as well as low noise pollution and dark skies. Many of these resources benefit from their location within the Scituate Reservoir watershed where there are constraints which allow protection from potentially destructive impacts resulting from development. Strong local support, as identified in the survey of 2012, is also beneficial to protecting natural resources.

At the same time, however, natural resources lying outside the Scituate Reservoir watershed can be adversely impacted by new construction and related activities. Foster is a small town with limited finances and municipal staff available for countering development pressures. At the same time, the maintenance and protection of at least one natural resource – the water quality of the Scituate Reservoir – is imposing a financial burden on Foster residents due to the Providence Water Supply Board’s reluctance to pay adequate taxes on watershed land.

Presently and soon, Foster can craft conservation and industrial development zoning to preserve large contiguous tracts of land for open space and wildlife habitat protection and to provide maximum protection for its remaining natural resources. Until such regulations are drafted and adopted however, the local natural environment remains susceptible to development and poor land use practices. Invasive and overpopulating species will remain constant threats to our natural resources as well.

NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS MAP Foster’s natural resources were extensively mapped for the first and second comprehensive plans (Environmental InventoryDRAFT and Overlay Analysis). Additional features and elements have been added as part of the mapping conducted by the Scituate Reservoir Greenspace and Water Protection Strategy in 2007, and based on work conducted as part of this Comprehensive Plan. The inventory is presented on Map // and specific resource components are described below with their land use constraints and specific ecologic services.

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 8

RARE SPECIES AND KEY HABITAT AREAS The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) most recently revised the state’s Wildlife Action Plan (WAP) in 2015 with assistance from the University of Rhode Island (URI) and The Nature Conservancy. In its revision, fourteen of the state’s 36 key habitats were identified as being present in Foster:

• Agricultural lands • Deciduous forested swamp • Freshwater emergent marsh • Inland pond and river shore • Lake • Mixed oak/pitch pine forest • Mixed oak/white pine forest • Northern hardwood forest • Northern peatlands • Oak forest • River • Ruderal grassland/shrubland • Seeps, springs and vernal ponds • Shrub swamp/wet meadow

These habitats together supported over 200 rare species statewide, including 55 bird, 16 fish, 13 herpetofauna, 98 invertebrate, 11 mammal and 12 plant species. The RI Natural Heritage Program compiled a list of rare species and exemplary natural communities in Foster, with the location of occurrences noted. The following were listed as rare species habitat areas of particular interest within Foster:

• The area surrounding Hemlock Brook (primarily a well-developed, mixed hemlock-deciduous forest) provides critical habitat for several rare species of birds in Rhode Island. Threats include logging and development of adjacent uplands. Protection of this forest-wetlands system is strongly urged. • The subterranean spring system throughout the Jerimoth Hill area supports rare herpetofauna. Although The Nature Conservancy has initiated protection efforts through their program of private areas registry, further development and diversion of water are still threats. • Parker Woodland, owned by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, supports several rare species. The expansion of this preserve through the protection of adjacent parcels would enhance its viability by bufferingDRAFT outside disturbances as well as increasing the topographic, microclimatic and floristic diversity. • The mixed deciduous woodland just west of Round Hill, interspersed with small intermittent streams and seeps, supports a variety of rare flora. Development of this area is the most prevalent threat.

The Action Plan identifies seven small areas considered to be of very high value due to the threatened or endangered species observed but these have little regulatory protection. These areas should be targeted for conservation.

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 9

AREAS OF HIGH SCENIC VALUE Fourteen areas in town were catalogued in the Rhode Island Landscape Inventory (1990) by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM). These areas are considered distinctive or noteworthy on a statewide rating. In addition, the Foster Conservation Commission and other citizens have noted areas of high scenic value and interest which they have determined reinforce the identity of the town. These areas include those which may not have been catalogued by RIDEM staff but are known by local residents and property owners.

Natural Boiling Springs This one acre aquatic site, undisclosed by request of the property owner, is a habitat area of unusual significance to a fauna community. Unlike in most springs, these waters appear to surface from underneath rather than from the side. This causes sand on the bottom to continuously turn over and tends to maintain the water temperature at an almost constant level year round. As a result, trout can be seen throughout the year. While there are no human-made structures in close proximity and the site is undisturbed, there is also open exposure to possible damage. Additional information on this site can be obtained from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.

Honey Pot Swamp This area of about 30 aces is actually a thick sphagnum mat bog surrounded by swamp areas and traversed by several trails. The central sphagnum mat is the most interesting feature as it supports a good growth of native black spruce trees. Some of these have reached considerable size and reproduction appears healthy. Pitch pine, a species normally found in dry, desert-like conditions, is also thriving here. The area is a habitat for a diversity of wildlife as well. A portion of its western edge has been filled by one of its owners to create pastureland for cattle, indicating that this area should be protected.

Uncommon Vegetation A ten-acre site consists of a young forest of mixed hardwoods. The forest floor is the site of an unusual variety of herbaceous plants not commonly found in Rhode Island. Plants such as hepatica and perfoliate bellwort are here along with many other species indicative of a rich habitat. Many boulders, undoubtedly of glacial origin, make walking in the area difficult and perhaps contribute to the environmental conditions that allow the growth of these unusual species. The trees are mostly of black and yellow birch, beech, and dogwood – trees usually found in mesic conditions. This area shows promise of developing into a prime biological community if left undisturbedDRAFT for several more years. Hemlock Swamp The 100 acre Hemlock Swamp, named for an extensive stand of hemlock trees existing along both sides of Hemlock Brook, also contains a very old stand of red pines. The area extends north from Foster Center (once called Hemlock) along the brook for a considerable distance. The forest is quite dense in spots and a wide variety of herbaceous plants are found in this rich area. Although it is not far from residential areas and Foster Center, it still retains a remote and pristine nature. The area is known to have otter and other wildlife along the brook. To the east of Hemlock Swamp, beyond a hill and behind a cemetery, is a red pine

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 10

plantation that is purportedly the oldest stand in Rhode Island. Some of the specimens are of considerable size and show reproduction. This area as a whole is an important forest and wetland community.

Isthmus Road This scenic gravel road traverses the ledge of a reservoir and offers scenic vistas of ledges and covers along the water. The road is surrounded by an attractive landscape encompassing an area of about 500 acres; forests, small coves, high ledge outcrops and inlets of the Westconnaug Reservoir can all be seen. An additional feature along this road is the localized growth of balsam fir seedlings. Several of these, uncommon for this area, have been seen along the road. The area is noted for its wildlife, which includes plentiful population of minks and otters. No portion of the road should be improved and only minimum development, if any, should take place along Isthmus Road.

Gabbro Outcrop This five acre open farmland site contains an unusual gabbro outcrop in the middle of an old field visually interesting due to rapid decaying and weathering that is resulting in much of the material being broken down into smaller pieces. Fringed gentian and other unusual plants grow near the outcrop. A dedicated effort should be made to protect this area’s rural quality.

Native American Settlement This large Native American rock shelter is under one of the largest glacial boulders in the state. Several found artifacts indicate the area was used as a camping site or other temporary shelter. The site is in the state-owned Ponagansett Fishing Area.

Shagbark Hickory Trees Although not a pure stand, this 25-acre forest is dominated by shagbark hickory trees, generally uncommon in the state. Some have reached considerable size. The area is divided by Ponagansett Road and both halves are owned by the Providence Water Supply Board. This makes the area relatively safe from potentially negative environmental impacts.

Ostrich Fern This one acre site possesses a stand of ostrich fern and is one of no more than four such sites in Rhode Island.

Hemlock Road Hemlock Road is an undeveloped and unpaved road crossing between Foster and neighboring Scituate, Rhode Island. MostDRAFT the road is on land owned by the Providence Water Supply Board and passes by coves and an inlet of the Barden Reservoir. It is also one of only two sites in Rhode Island where a unique species of rattlesnake plantain is found. The town does not seek to pave the roadway.

Tulip Trees This 30 acre site is reported to have previously been the location of several species of rare and unusual plants. While much of this original vegetation is no longer found here, a section of this area does have a large forest dominated by tulip trees in healthy condition which

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 11

makes it the most extensive tulip tree site within Rhode Island. For this reason, and the apparent loss of previously existing rare vegetation, its future protection is merited.

Paine Brook A five-acre forest and portion of Paine Brook is a scenic, significant and unusual land/water interface with hemlocks. Paine Brook is a small tributary or feeder brook which eventually joins larger waters to empty into the Barden Reservoir. Paine Brook is situated north of Route 6. It is a very scenic section with hemlock and white pine bordering the stream.

WATER RESOURCES

Map XX shows water resources in Foster. Two-thirds of Foster drains to the Scituate Reservoir, a regional public water supply. Both inside and outside the reservoir's watershed are valuable streams and rivers that are important to the town's scenic qualities and natural habitats. All residents rely on groundwater for potable water. Many of these water resources are connected; all can be threatened by inappropriate development or poorly designed or maintained septic systems. Although the water quality in the town is generally good, there have been localized problem areas (groundwater contamination) and indications of potential problems (apparent degradation of ponds). Federal, State, and local agencies regulate many of the resources and constraints. However, current regulations, including local regulations, should be improved to provide better protection of the natural resources. Federal and State regulations may not always be applied or enforced consistently. Many of the Town's current regulations do not apply to frontage development or do not focus on protecting specific resources.

NATURAL RESOURCES AND NATURAL RESOURCE AREAS

Bedrock Outcrops Bedrock outcrops and shallow bedrock are found throughout the town. Bedrock outcrop soil complexes were mapped together with the steep slope soil units. Outcrops pose moderate constraints, potentially interfering with septic system function, building and road construction, and use of land for crops. However, while not appropriate for dense development, such sites can be developed with proper engineering and review.

Steep Slopes Steep slopes occur throughout the town, many associated with shallow bedrock and outcrops. Most steep slopes are between 15 and 30 percent slope, and a few small areas exceed 30 percent. Steep slopes DRAFT represent a moderate constraint to development, posing potential problems of erosion and improper septic system function. Careful site design and review can minimize threats to resources. Where steep slopes occur near streams, they represent the highest risks of sedimentation into aquatic habitats.

Soils The Soil Conservation Service has defined five groups of soil constraints for use by Rhode Island Geographic Information System (RIGIS). Group A represents a relatively low level of constraint, possibly including stony soils, or soils with slow or rapid permeability. Group B includes soils with a water table from 18 to 42 inches from the surface, containing areas

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 12

where the water table is high. Group C includes steep slopes and rocky soils. Group D includes hydric soils, where the water table is at or near the ground surface for a significant period during each year. Group E designates dumps, beaches, and other unusual features.

• Group A soils present relatively little constraint and make up 33 percent of the town area. These generally occur in the northeastern one third of Foster (within the Scituate Reservoir watershed) and the southwestern corner. • Group B soils make up approximately 34 percent of the town area, occurring along Howard and Cucumber Hills and extensively in western Foster. These soils present moderate constraints. The possibility of a high water table indicates a greater potential for groundwater pollution from improperly designed or poorly functioning septic systems. In addition, these soils may contain federally regulated wetlands. Again, such areas may be developed with careful engineering and town review. • Group C soils occur in 12 percent of the town and are discussed above under steep slopes and rocky soils. They occur on Oak Hill and south of the hill, between Cucumber and Howard Hills, and south of the Westconnaug Reservoir. • Group D soils occur as narrow bands along streams and in identified wetlands. Comprising approximately 18 percent of the town area, they represent a high level of constraint. Hydric soils generally indicate the presence of regulated wetlands. Structures, including septic systems, are generally not permitted in such soils.

Forests Over 80 percent of the Town of Foster is currently forested, in part due to much of Foster’s agricultural land reverting back to woodland over the past 50 years. An extensive acreage of forested land is actively managed by the Providence Water Supply Board as watershed protection for the Scituate Reservoir water supply. Other forested lands in the southeastern and northern areas of the town are owned and managed by conservation groups (including the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, The Nature Conservancy and the Foster Land Trust) for wildlife and habitat preservation and passive recreation. Several private local landowners are also managing their forested land as tree farms for wildlife and habitat preservation, passive recreation and economic potential.

Wetlands The National Wetlands Inventory and the USDA Soil Conservation Service mapping (Group D soils) were used to identify the general location of wetlands. These are considered areas of high constraints to development and high ecologic importance because of their value for habitat, groundwater recharge, and surface water storage and filtration. They are generally regulated by state and federalDRAFT agencies. Most wetlands in the town are associated with the stream systems and floodplains. Especially diverse or unusual wetland complexes were identified from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Wetlands Inventory maps and highlighted as being of very high importance. These areas occur along the Moosup River and Hemlock Brook and south of the Barden Reservoir and include marshes and scrub shrub or evergreen wetlands.

Floodplains Floodplains generally occur in narrow bands near streams and rivers, with some isolated or larger floodplains identified in wetlands. Floodplains represent high constraint to

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 13

development due to the risks of septic system failure, water pollution, and erosion. They serve an important role in limiting downstream flooding during storm events. Floodplains occur along the Ponagansett River, Hemlock Brook, West Meadow Brook and the Moosup River and its tributaries.

Surface Water The Scituate Reservoir Watershed and its two feeder reservoirs – the Barden and Westconnaug reservoirs – dominate much of Foster. The Scituate Reservoir watershed roughly occupies the eastern two thirds of the town.

The other drainage systems in Foster are the Moosup River/Quanduck Brook (draining to the Thames River in Connecticut), Killingly Pond (draining to the Quinnebaug River in Connecticut) and the Flat River Reservoir system (draining to the Pawtuxet River). According to reports by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), the streams flowing into the Scituate Reservoir meet Class A standards but are threatened by pollution from development. The Moosup River system is considered a highly valuable pristine system. State and federal regulations help to protect the quality of surface waters and the Scituate Reservoir is further protected by a watershed protection plan and the Providence Water Supply Board's ownership of land next to the reservoir.

Groundwater The town relies entirely on wells for its drinking water and does not have any groundwater resources as defined and mapped by RIDEM that have a high potential to be significant public drinking supply sources. However, the town does have outwash deposits that may yield a source of drinking water for small-scale public systems. Rhode Island has not mapped any significant aquifers in Foster. Limited outwash deposits generally occur in major river valleys. These resources are shown on the Groundwater Resources map based on United States Geological Survey (USGS) surficial geology mapping of outwash deposits. They are well suited to supply or recharge public water, as water moves quite freely through these deposits, but they are also easily polluted. A large deposit underlies and surrounds the Barden and Westconnaug reservoirs, Paine Brook, and Foster Center. Other relatively large outwash deposits are in southwestern Foster and the Moosup River Valley. The town also contains several public wells (those serving 25 or more residents or 15 or more people per day). The state’s Rules and Regulations for Groundwater Quality requires protection areas to be centered on each public well, with a radius ranging from 1,750 to 3,133 feet depending on the pumping rate. The wellhead protection zones and outwash deposits are considered high constraints. Their use or potential use as public water supplies should be protected with strict performance standardsDRAFT or other land use controls. Agricultural Lands and Soils Soil surveys of Rhode Island are conducted by the federal Natural Resources Conservation Service and the state Division of Planning to identify prime farmlands and other soils of statewide significance. Prime farmlands are those soils which have features most suitable for farming while other soils of statewide significance are generally those which are nearly prime farmland and produce high yields under acceptable conditions or are designated for agricultural production by state law. Clusters of agricultural soils of prime or statewide importance occur in the Moosup River Valley and along Winsor and Hemlock brooks. They

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 14

represent approximately 12 percent of the town's area. Many of Foster's active farms occur on important agricultural soils. Most of the farms are currently accessory uses on residential lots.

EXISTING CONSERVATION AREAS Although the majority of undeveloped land within Foster is under private ownership, including some valuable scenic and natural areas, many properties are protected from future development. These include:

• Town-owned properties, including Green Acres (currently closed due to pollution from nearby agriculture), section 6(f) (developed for recreational use with federal Land and Water Conservation funds) and properties owned by Foster Land Trust. • Audubon Society of Rhode Island properties, including Parker Woodland • Properties registered with the state and town under the Farm, Forest and Open Space Act • State-owned properties, including Shippee Pond and Ponagansett River areas • Providence Water Supply Board properties

The locations of these properties are shown on Map //.

Foster Land Trust The Foster Land Trust (FLT) is established by the Town Charter with the authority to acquire, hold, and manage real property and interest therein (including development rights) situated in the town for protecting, managing and preserving natural areas, forest land, farm land, aquifer recharge areas, rivers, streams, and swamps. FLT currently protects more than 900 acres in areas throughout town.

Table // Inventory of Foster Land Trust Properties Acreag Name Address Plat Lot(s) e Walker South Killingly Road 008 001 21.0 Tu l l i s – B oc k ov e n off Walker Road 005 013, 014 9.1 Briggs Moosup Valley Road 002 027 8.1 Hoff East Killingly Road 013 014D 9.2 Spencer DRAFTOld Danielson Pike 015 001 158.0 Hayfield Management Area Winsor Road 017 039B* 101.4 Tikkanen Kennedy Road 004 020 44.0 Martins off Kennedy Road 004 023B 8.0 Merriman Howard Hill Road 005 046P1, 046P2 10.0 Shippee Schoolhouse Road Sainio 013 065 74.8 and Tom Woods Road

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 15

Shippee Schoolhouse Road Lapolla 013 070 118.0 and Tom Woods Road Schneider Tom Woods Road 013 066 158.0 Hopkins Ram Tail Road 015 048 24.0 Grass Shippee Schoolhouse Road 013 005 84.0 Delvecchio Tom Woods Road 010 029A, 029B 98.98 Dunbar Property Cucumber Hill Road 001 22b 17.7 Spencer West Paine Road 014 015 18.0 Tot al 962.28 Source: Foster Land Trust

Key properties under FLT’s ownership are Spencer, Hayfield and Hopkins:

• Spencer: perhaps the most well-known FLT property, it includes more than 150 acres on the north side of Old Danielson Pike with a small parking area and entrance west of pole 64. The property was donated to FLT in 1999 by Marjorie T. Spencer and her family in memory of Dr. Robert Spencer. • Hayfield: the property includes over 100 acres on the west side of Winsor Road. The frontage runs from its northeast corner, opposite pole 54 where the entrance is located, to its southeast corner at the stone wall near pole 43. The land was acquired through a deed transfer from The Nature Conservancy in 2001. Three trails have been recently established. Parking is available on and off street parking is available. • Hopkins: the property includes 24 acres accessible via an entrance at the Hopkins Mill Cemetery parking area on Rams Tail Road. The property was secured in late 2008 with assistance from The Nature Conservancy, Champlin Foundations, and RIDEM grant funding. A half mile trail leads to the old McLaughlin bridge, at the confluence of the Dolly Cole Brook and the Ponagansett River, which is currently a beaver dam.

The Ponagansett River Corridor Greenway (also referred to as the North-South Trail) acquired land from the Tom Woods Road Preserve as part of this state greenway parcel. The Greenway is composed of property held by the Nature Conservancy, Audubon, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) and presently includes about 600 acres. • Ponagansett River Corridor Greenway/The North -South Trail on Tom Wood Road passes through four Land Trust properties:DRAFT 1. Sainio: acquired in 2006 with assistance from The Nature Conservancy, The Champlin Foundations, the Doris Duke Foundation, and a DEM Greenways grant, this property includes 77 acres and is located on the northeast corner of Tom Wood Road and Shippee Schoolhouse Road. It is part of the North Foster Greenway. 2. Schneider: Another large holding, the Schneider property, includes 158 acres on the north side of Tom Wood Road that is also part of the North Foster Greenway. The land was acquired in 2004 with assistance from The Nature Conservancy, Champlin Foundations, the Doris Duke Foundation, and a DEM Greenways grant.

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 16

3. LaPolla: the 101.8 acre property was acquired in 2007 and abuts the Schneider and Sainio properties. It is also part of the North Foster Greenway. 4. Delvecchio: The 75 acre parcel was acquired via a deed transfer from The Nature Conservancy

Future plans for the North-South Trail include its rerouting to run through additional properties owned by Foster Land Trust, as well as through abutting Borders Farm Preservation Inc. property.

The natural resources of the town are also used for outdoor recreation. Foster residents and visitors enjoy nature through hunting and fishing, boating, swimming, bird watching, hiking, snowmobiling and cross country skiing in natural areas. Natural resources are a priority for conservation, because of their recreational values and because these forms of recreation enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors.

CONSERVATION REGULATIONS

Current Regulations and Programs Federal, state, and local agencies have regulations which cover many of these resources and should be improved to provide better, more consistent protection and enforcement. While this may be difficult at the federal and state levels, many of the Town's current regulations do not focus on protecting specific resources.

Federal and State Regulations and Programs Many of the inventoried natural resources are regulated in part by federal and/or state agencies, including wetlands, floodplains, and water quality. FEMA regulates development in floodplains. The state’s septic system requirements address soil limitations, slope, depth to water table, and distance to wells and its wellhead protection program requires protection areas to be designated around public wells. In addition, the Scituate Reservoir Watershed Management Plan is a guide for Rhode Island agencies and municipalities to aid in the protection of the Scituate Reservoir, a vitally important public water supply.

Federal and state regulations are a basis for protecting natural resources but their regulations may not be consistently applied or enforced by agencies. At the same time, as documented in the Scituate Reservoir Management Plan, these regulations may also not always be adequate to protect sensitiveDRAFT natural resources from the impacts of development. RIDEM has the authority to prevent the alteration of a wetland but cannot prevent land use impacts within the watershed from having an impact on the water quality and wildlife of the wetland. In many communities, there is an over reliance on federal and state regulatory programs to protect resources that should or must be protected at the local level. The 1991 adoption by the Rhode Island General Assembly of the Zoning Enabling Act explicitly granted communities the authority to protect certain natural resources that would have been questionable or not possible to regulate through zoning in the past. Efforts to protect natural resources through zoning restrictions have been subject to challenges by the RI Builders Association who have recently promoted state legislation to exempt development from mandatory wetlands

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 17

setbacks, require that slopes not be omitted from density calculations, and require onerous notification procedures for any zone changes potentially affecting development density.

Municipal Regulations and Programs The Town's zoning and subdivision regulations currently require minimum size lots and specified setbacks from lot lines and streams. While the density of development that these regulations dictate is appropriately based upon the "carrying capacity" of the land, there is a need for additional alternate development patterns which would enhance environmental protection. Existing subdivision regulations require delineation of wetlands, watercourses, natural habitats, slopes and site suitability for septic systems.

Foster has a commercial/industrial site review process which includes requirements on runoff, erosion control, delineation of wetlands and floodplains, site suitability for septic systems, and protection of water quality and habitats.

Foster has an erosion and sedimentation control ordinance which applies to multiple residence developments and any land clearings over five acres. Oversize agricultural/ residential lots and wetland lots receive a discount on property taxes.

More specific zoning guidelines are needed that address specific natural resource concerns.

Currently Foster has noise control regulations that restrict noise to within an owner’s property boundaries during certain hours of the day. Foster allows shooting ranges in AR zones, but does not permit gun stores.

There is no lighting ordinance although the Planning Board includes evaluation of impacts of lighting in the development plan review process.

RECREATIONAL RESOURCES Publicly-owned parks and other outdoor recreational areas, publicly operated indoor recreational sites such as schools and community centers and privately-owned parks and other outdoor recreational areas are significant in meeting Foster’s recreational needs. Important recreational properties in Foster are shown on the Recreation map and included in the following table.

Table // Recreational Resources DRAFTResource Acreage Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School 16 Dunbars Field 4.75 Moosup Valley (town park) 8 Ponaganset High School 8 Town House Field 5

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 18

Woody Lowden Center 11 Town resources subtotal 60.75 Jerimoth Hill Grove 2 Ponagansett Fishing Area 70 Shippee Pond Access 3 State resources subtotal 75 Brown Snowmobile 105 Cranston Fish & Game 100 Dyer Woods Nudist Camp 200 Foster Country Club 180 Ginny “B” Campgrounds 115 Highland Rod & Gun 62 Parker Woodland (Audubon Society of Rhode Island) 200 Pine Tree Gun Club 22 Rifle Club (Part) 40 Rifle Club (Part) 87 Vasa Park Campgrounds 42 Whippoorwill Campground 35 Private resources subtotal 1,188 Resources total 1,323.75 Source:

Town-, state-, and privately-owned recreation facilities together total 1,323.8 acres. Most of this (1,188 acres) is under private ownership while town-owned facilities include those belonging to the Foster-Glocester Regional School District. The // map shows all recreational resources in Foster as well as designated public access points to natural and conservation areas intended for recreationalDRAFT use. Recreation in Open Spaces Resulting from their abundance in the community, natural resources are commonly relied on for outdoor recreation. Our residents enjoy local opportunities to hunt, fish, boat, swim, bird watch, hike, snowmobile, cross country ski, and snowshoe at locations throughout the town. Natural resources are a priority for conservation, because of their recreational values and because these forms of recreation enhance the quality of life for residents.

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 19

Recreation Programs The Town of Foster’s Recreation Department is comprised of a director who works with a volunteer Recreation Committee to advocate for recreational and community activities for all residents, such as youth athletics. Fun and educational activities to enhance the quality of life for children and families living in Foster include or have included:

• Supporting and funding organized, non-profit sports programs for children • Maintaining the Woody Lowden recreational facility, which includes basketball courts, a football/soccer field, a walking/running track, the Mike Polouski Baseball Field, and indoor activities • Co-hosting an "Easter in the Valley" egg hunt • Hosting an annual Halloween Dance at Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School, the St. Patrick's Day winter celebration, cookie swaps, summer movie nights, swimming at the YMCA, skating at the Smithfield Ice Rink, adult volleyball games, bus trips, community yard sales, and the little farmers play area at the Foster Old Home Days • Offering courses in numerous areas including yoga, zumba, floral arranging, and others • Supporting the Young at Heart seniors and the Summer Concert series

All these events have been sponsored by the Recreation Committee in partnership with groups and organizations including the Libraries of Foster, the Old Home Days Committee, and the Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School Parent Teacher Group (PTG). Sport activities including soccer, T-ball, baseball, basketball and volleyball are also sponsored by the Recreation Committee.

The Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School’s grounds offer a playground, walking trails and indoor Volleyball.

Other activities and events taking place in town are held by many non-public organizations, such as: • Boy Scout Troop 101 • Cub Scout Pack 101 • Girl Scouts and Brownies • National FFA Organization membership and activities available through Foster- Glocester Regional School District • 4-H Club held at the Moosup Valley Grange • Young at Heart program

Trips to different events andDRAFT sites provided by the Recreation Committee are open to all Foster residents.

North South Trail The North-South Trail is a scenic hiking trail connecting Rhode Island’s coastline in Charlestown to the state line with Massachusetts in Burrillville and crossing through the Town of Foster. The trail is about 80 miles in length and is directly connected to the 95-mile-long Midstate Trail in Massachusetts. By this extension, the North-South Trail also connects to the 21 mile Wapack Trail in New Hampshire. Along with hiking, there are also opportunities to

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 20

bike, birdwatch, cross country ski, and hunt on the trail. Camp sites can also be found along the trail.

NATURAL RESOURCE ASSESSMENT The Town of Foster presents the following assessment of its natural resources based as a means of conserving the community’s significant natural resources in perpetuity and minimizing the negative impacts of development on the land, water, plants and animals that sustain and enhance the environment.

STATEWIDE AND LOCAL ISSUES The Town of Foster supports State goals and policies that are appropriate to the community’s visions and goals. This includes the second goal of Land Use 2025: Rhode Island’s State Land Use Policies:

“A statewide network of greenspaces and greenways that protects and preserves the environment, wildlife habitats, natural resources, scenic landscapes, provides recreation, and shapes urban growth.”

Foster, like Rhode Island, wants to protect critical natural resources – especially those described above. The Town is supportive of linking conservation and recreation properties to ensure that they provide contiguous, uninterrupted forest cover and/or characters that protect habitat and provide for wildlife migration. Foster also wants to maintain high quality woodland and forest properties to protect the water supply, protect wetlands and floodplains, produce forest products, and ensure habitat quality.

Further, Foster wants to provide a diverse and well-balanced system of public indoor and outdoor recreation facilities. Foster will manage public lands to ensure that residents and visitors can both make passive recreational use of conservation and recreation properties for outdoor activities that enhance public health and well-being.

Water Resource Protection A specific concern is the need to protect the town's water resources. Two-thirds of Foster is within the watershed of the Scituate Reservoir, a vital regional public water supply. Both inside and outside the reservoir's watershed are valuable streams and rivers that are important to the town's scenic qualities and natural habitats. All residents rely on groundwater for potable water. These water resources are connected; all can be threatened by inappropriate development,DRAFT poorly managed storm water runoff, erosion and sedimentation, or poorly designed or maintained septic systems. Although the water quality in the town is generally good, there have been localized problem areas where groundwater contamination has impacted local wells, and some instances where sediment runoff and excessive nutrient enrichment have impacted surface water bodies.

Agricultural Land Loss of agricultural land to residential development and by cessation of farming and reversion to forest land has long been an issue of concern in Foster as most local dairy farms ceased

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 21

operation. Recent data suggest a reversal of this trend in both areas. First, due to economic conditions, the rate of development has stalled in Foster and conversion of farmland to development has not been manifested recently. A return to robust growth, however has the potential to affect farmland in the future. Second, local agriculture is experiencing rapid growth in Rhode Island and locally. Regulatory changes such as the RI Right to Farm Act, agricultural incentive programs of RIDEM, and changing market conditions such as Community Supported Agriculture, Farm-share, Farm to Table, Farmer’s Markets, Rhody Fresh and the Local Food movement have led to recent growth in Rhode Island agriculture. Currently operating farms in Foster, according to Farm fresh Rhode Island (www.farmfresh.org) are shown in Table XX below.

Table // Operating Farms in Foster Farm Products Grown, Raised Distribution Amber Valley Ridge Vegetables, Herbs, Spreads, Farm Fiber AMCC Cattle Co. Meat Delivery, Pickup, Farmers Markets, Farm Stand Babbling Brook Farm Dogs - Labrador Pickup Bear Tree Farm organic certified Hay & Pickup Vegetables

Bellucci Farms Pork Pickup, Pig Roasts Borders Farm Meat, Grains + Feeds Foodbank Garden to Local Food Bank Briggs Farm Meat, Grains + Feeds Pickup Cornerstone Farm Grains + Feeds Wholesale

Cucumber Hill Farm Vegetables, Meat, Grains, Farm Stand, PYO Feeds, Breeding Stock Del Farm Greenhouse Wholesale Eat Me Acres Farm Meat, Grains + Feeds Pickup Foster Family Farm DRAFTVegetables, Family Fun Wholesale Foster Farm Grains + Feeds Wholesale Ghost Flower Farm Fruit, Vegetables, Herbs, CSA Honey, Maple, Dairy + Eggs, Specialty, Baked Goods (chemical-free) Griffiths And Sons Farm Meat

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 22

Hattie's Country Store Fruit, Vegetables, Herbs, Pickup, Restaurants Wood, Nursery + Flowers, Specialty, Pet Food (chemical- free) Hill Farm Fruit, Dairy + Eggs, Meat, Pet Delivery, Pickup, Restaurants, Food, Breeding Stock Schools, Wholesale Howard Hill Farm & Nursery + Flowers Greenhouses Legend's Creek Farm - Vegetables, Herbs, Honey, Pickup Raw Honey & Goats Maple, Dairy + Eggs, Milk Soap Specialty, Breeding Stock (chemical-free) Little Rhody Farms Dairy + Eggs Market Mobile online, Restaurants Locust Leaf Farm Dairy + Eggs, Meat (chemical Pickup, Farm Stand free) Maple Dell Farm Vegetables, Herbs, Honey, CSA, Restaurants Maple, Meat, Nursery, Flowers, Breeding Stock Misty-Willow Farm Vegetables, Meat, Grains + Wholesale Feeds Natural Designs Honey, Maple, Dairy, Eggs, Farm Stand Nursery , Flowers, Fiber (CF) Nickle Creek Vineyard Fruit, Wine + Liquor, Family Delivery, Pickup, Wholesale Fun North Road Tree Farm Vegetables, Dairy, Eggs, Delivery, Farm Stand Nursery Flowers, Specialty (Chem Free) On The Lane Farm Honey + Maple Farmers Markets Rambone Dairy Farm Dairy + Eggs Wholesale Ross Orchard (Paine Meat Wholesale Farm) DRAFT Sassafras Bandits Permaculture Crops Farmers Markets Permaculture Farm Shoe String Farm Dairy + Eggs, Grains + Feeds Wholesale The White Cottage Fruit, Vegetables, Herbs, Delivery, Pickup Farm Dairy, Eggs, Nursery + Flowers, Spreads, Specialty, Pet Food, Fiber

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 23

Wasilewski Hog Farm Meat Wholesale

Source: Farm Fresh RI

The local increase in agriculture bodes well for the town being able to preserve agricultural land, but rising land values continue to pose a concern for the future of agriculture in Foster. According to the US Department of Agriculture1, the average cost of an acre of cropland in Rhode Island is $13,800, the highest in the country. Rising land values continue to pose a threat to the operation of local farms and a barrier to the start-up of new agricultural operations.

Degrading Natural Resources Threats from future residential, commercial or industrial development include degradation of water supply and water quality, increased light and sound pollution, loss of open space and increased habitat destruction. In addition, Foster may be considered for siting of wind, solar or other renewable energy projects, because of the town’s elevation and existing open space. Care should be taken to ensure that any such projects do not jeopardize any of Foster’s natural resources. Responsible development will provide the best protection for these resources. However, the Town’s priority is to address certain existing conditions that threaten to degrade the town’s natural resources.

Pollution Sources Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has mapped several potential sources of groundwater pollution, including the former Nike sites, the former Town dump on Salisbury Road, a former industrial site in Scituate, and several surface impoundments in western Foster. (these are shown on Map //) Other potential pollution sources include: • Land uses that store or generate toxic material, such as junkyards. There is one junkyard near the Barden Reservoir. • Agricultural uses where erosion or animal waste runoff is not controlled. • Any future dense residential or commercial development posing a pollution risk from septic systems or surface runoff from rooftops, roads, and parking areas.

Gravelling and Quarrying Operations These are potential uses of Foster’s natural bedrock and soil resources. Such operations present a potential for groundwater and surface water pollution, alteration of runoff patterns, sediment runoff, and noise and air pollution. While State and local regulations exist, these need to be periodically updated and consistently enforced. The town of Foster should also consider adoptingDRAFT an extraction ordinance placing minimum requirements on gravel and stone extraction to protect ground and surface water quality.

Deer Infestation The uncontrolled growth of Rhode Island’s deer population represents an increasing threat to Foster’s forest land. Heavy deer browsing reduces the regeneration of trees, wildflowers and other native plants and increases invasive plant and tick populations, which results in the spreading of tick-borne diseases. Deer are over abundant in much of the United States due to

1 http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/usda/current/AgriLandVa/AgriLandVa-08-05-2016.pdf

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 24

a lack of natural predators, an increase in human altered, fragmented landscapes, and changing social values about hunting.2 In areas where landscaping provides excellent forage for deer but hunting is not allowed, growth of the herd is unimpeded. Damage to farms and gardens can be severe. Overgrazing by deer degrades habitats, impacts wildlife sharing the same forest layer, reduces forest diversity, and contributes to proliferation of invasive species. Automobile collisions with deer are also a problem. Overcrowding and travel in search of mates, food and territory, cause deer to cross roadways, bringing them in conflict with automobiles and threatening public safety, particularly at dawn and dusk when visibility is poor.

OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NATURAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION & RECREATION

Priorities for Conservation of Natural Resources Foster residents place a high priority on conserving its natural resources in the 2012 resident survey, as they form the foundation of the rural aspect of the town and its way of life. These resources consist of agricultural land, water resources, forests, wildlife habitat, open space and scenic views, as well as country quiet and dark skies. The inclusion of a large portion of Foster lying within the Scituate Reservoir watershed, there are constraints to development which help protect natural resources from the impacts of development.

Conservation efforts should be focused on minimizing adverse impacts of future land development, including:

• Maintenance of high quality watersheds to preserve adequate and clean water supplies for town residents and other communities, • Preservation and reclamation of land for agricultural use. • Preservation of contiguous open space for wildlife habitat and passive recreation, and

The following issues concerning environmental regulations were raised by local citizens:

• The rights of property owners need to be protected. • Environmental controls must be strengthened. • The Town's small staff and boards must be able to enforce the regulations. Natural resources are fragileDRAFT and development can easily have adverse environmental impacts on those resources. Foster is a small town with few financial resources and limited municipal staff available to adequately protect natural resources, leaving them open to adverse impacts from development and poor land use practices. Environmental factors such as invasive species and overpopulated species also threaten the health of our natural habitats. The requirement to maintain and protect water quality of the town and of the Scituate Reservoir imposes a financial burden on the town’s residents as well, particularly in light of the Providence Water Supply Board’s reluctance to pay adequate taxes on watershed land.

2 http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/fishwild/pdf/deer.pdf

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 25

At the same time, Foster has taken major land use regulatory steps to protect the water supply by adopting land use density provisions that enable suitable building areas to be found on residential lots, many of which are characterized by an abundance of wetland, hydric or high water table soils, steep slopes or other unbuildable environmental conditions. Looking forward, Foster can preserve large contiguous tracts of land for open space and wildlife habitat protection. The Town must also revise and update its zoning ordinance to include more extensive considerations for conservation zoning, new best practices and adherence to Land Use 2025 guidelines.

DRAFT

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 26

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS CONCERNING NATURAL RESOURCES

Goals Objectives Policies Actions Revise specific regulations for conservation zoning Develop conservation to protect Develop zoning to incorporate agricultural land, Natural Resource conservation siting and design water resources Protection policies to standards based on forests and wildlife Protect and - protect water environmental habitat, preserve quality consideration of each open space and environmental -protect scenic lot. scenic views, natural resources of the quality topography of land, town -protect wildlife Develop a policy for a and other valuable habitat manufacturing/ natural resources -preserve open industrial zone that including country space protects the quiet and dark skies environment. Revise regulations for MI zoning to protect all of the above Set up agreements with Scituate, Glocester and Coventry, RI and Plainfield and Allow for Killingly, CT to Develop Policies to Support taxation responsible and protect common promote policies to preserve reasonable surface and responsible use of forestry agricultural and development, groundwater resources open space land use consistent with resources. environmental protection Maintain Land Trust as DRAFTthe key town agency in the program of coordinating land or development rights acquisitions.

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 27

Acquire development rights to large contiguous parcels funded in part by private donations and Promote acquisition of State open space Land or Development bond issue funds. Rights for vulnerable Enhance other and highly valued incentives to preserve natural resource areas. these parcels as open space (e.g. tax incentives) or include penalties for conversion.

Promote Foster as a whole as a Greenway. Pursue available grant General To plan for recreation, funding through such Ensure that the conservation and open State, Federal and objectives, space within a Private Foundation policies, and action comprehensive sources that will items regarding approach considering allow the Town to open space and development trends and move forward with its recreation the demands of the Open-Space and complement each community. Recreation objectives other. and goals. DRAFT

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 28

To encourage the exploration of additional means for obtaining and preserving Establish a capital recreation, conservation improvement program Provide a range of and open space other to efficiently allocate active and passive than out-right funds for orderly recreational purchases. acquisition of open facilities, programs space resources, and and open spaces To promote a sound and development of that satisfy the continuous capital recreation facilities, needs of the improvement program in a manner to take present and future to efficiently allocate advantage of State, population of the funds for orderly Federal and Private Foster Community. acquisition and Foundation matching development of funds or other recreation facilities and resources. open space resources according to the priority needs of the Town.

DRAFT

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 29

The preservation of conservation and open space areas for passive recreational use, and to provide public access to those areas while Open Space protecting sensitive Protect the unique resources located recreational, on those properties. To continue to require environmental and open space dedications cultural resources The creation of and / or fees in-lieu-of of the community, Identify all unique vibrant, multiple- land dedication in all including the areas of conservation use areas that are residential historic resources, concern, including sensitive to the developments. landscape and environment, inter- unique habitats and scenic features, formations, and connected, To endeavor to create rivers, lakes, scenic areas. accessible, safe, open space systems and ponds, and aesthetically corridors which protect groundwater Develop / Update a pleasing and complete ecological resources, list of priority areas integrated into the units, provide buffers agricultural soils, critical for existing land use and character to the community preservation with patterns. built environment and facilities and open direct assistance from provide passive spaces are the Conservation The acquisition of recreational and open protected from the Commission and the land for open space space opportunities potential adverse Land Trust. (Areas and conservation to close to developed effects of future designated or listed maintain the rural areas. growth and character of the in the Comprehensive development to Plan should form the community. To encourage Land Trust ensure that these base for this activities to save and resources continue inventory.) The maintenance of manage open space to enhance the the right of public through donation and quality of life in access to publicly other acquisition Foster for owned and methods residents and controlled open visitors alike. spaceDRAFT and to all important public natural and cultural resources for all citizens; and the protection of all current and historic rights-of-way which ensure this needed access. Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 30

To ensure that the needs and recreational The establishment interests for all of a proper balance residents, of all age between outdoor groups, physical and indoor capabilities, and recreational economic standing in all facilities for all areas of the state, are residents, of all age considered fully in Determine the future groups, physical developing Town recreational needs of capabilities and recreational facility the community – economic standings. plans. taking into consideration all The creation and To coordinate the residents of the maintenance of a Town’s provision of community. coordinated effort Recreation recreational facilities between the school Encourage and and programs with local Expand existing and recreation educate Foster’s groups and / or recreational sites departments to citizens to organizations as well as owned by the Town if maintain and participate in State and Federal feasible expand existing active recreation agencies to prevent and recreational programs. avoid duplication of Continue the facilities and to services, efforts and development of the acquire and develop costs. Foster Center Road new recreational athletic field facilities. To continue to seek such complex. funding as available The citizens are from State and Federal Locate areas within made aware of agencies, such as grants the Foster community various recreational etc. in order to meet for future recreation programs and the future needs of the facilities. opportunities and community regarding are encouraged to the maintenance of offer input and existing recreational insight to the sites, as well as Town’s recreational acquiring future sites programs and and development policies. DRAFTthereof into recreational facilities.

Natural Resources Conservation and Recreation Page 31

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ CURRENT CONDITIONS

❖ PROJECTED CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENT OF PROJECTED CONDITIONS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION The recorded history of present-day Foster stretches back to the Archaic period (6000 to 500 BCE) and it is likely the land was used for game hunting and temporary camping as early as 8300 BCE. Changes in climate and advances in technology through succeeding centuries allowed the Native American population to grow and transition from small hunter- gatherer groups to largely permanently-settled tribes. The Narragansett tribe was the dominant power in the area before the chartering of Rhode Island (1663) and continued to be so until its defeat in King Philip’s War (1675-1676). The conflict culminated with the spreading of European-originated diseases which significantly decreased the Narragansett population and the size of other local tribes, such as the Nipmuc who controlled the western half of present-day Foster. Colonial settlement west from Providence’s town center occurred steadily through the seventeenth century and the first building in Foster was constructed in the early 1700s. The continued growth in the outlands population was responded to in 1731 with the establishment of three towns from Providence’s original land – Glocester, Scituate and Smithfield. The Town of Foster was incorporated out of Scituate half a century later, during the Revolutionary period. Local development continued into the nineteenth century and peaked in 1820, at which time the country’s industrialization and territorial expansions west stunted Foster’s economy and population until the 1960s. It is not hard to view the entire town as an important and unique cultural landscape which retains the image and feel of an earlier time of rural tranquility and quietness. Although prosaic, this description is meaningful as these qualities are highly valued by Foster residents and often cited as a main reason for relocating to the community.

CURRENT CONDITIONS

ACTIVE PRESERVATION The historical and cultural resources of Foster which have accumulated over succeeding decades receive support and protection from several involved entities: • Town of Foster

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 32

• Foster Preservation Society (FPS)

• Libraries of Foster

• Rhode Island Historical Cemetery Commission (RIHCC)

• Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission (RIHPHC)

• Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA)

• Foster Land Trust

• Border’s Farm and Museum, LLC.

Resources Studies Foster has undergone at least three studies of its historical and cultural resources. Two were conducted by RIHPHC and one was conducted by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM). Each of these projects is discussed below:

• Foster, Rhode Island, Statewide Historical Preservation Report P-F-1(June 1982) – RIHPHC began the survey of Foster’s historic resources in 1969 as part of alternative alignment studies for the proposed, but never completed, Interstate 84 project through western Rhode Island. This corridor study included only the area through which the highway was planned to pass. Supplemental survey work was undertaken in 1973 and significantly expanded in 1976 as part of RIHPHC’s effort to prepare inventories of historical resources for each city and town in the state. Report P-F-1 described the historical development of the town and lists recommendations for the preservation of these resources. Printed copies are available for reading at Foster’s Town Hall and its local libraries. A digital copy is available for download on the RIHPHC website (http://www.preservation.ri.gov/ pdfs_zips_ downloads/survey_pdfs/foster.pdf). The state survey was initiated to identify resources worthy of preservation efforts and many of these have since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places (discussed below).

• Scituate Reservoir Greenspace and Water Protection Strategy (2007) – RIDEM contracted with Dobson Associates, Ltd., Landscape Architects & Planners, to conduct a broad study of the Scituate Reservoir Watershed’s assets, including its cultural resources and cultural priorities within each of the watershed’s communities. DRAFTThe study was conducted through a series of stakeholder meetings in each town within the watershed with the purpose to develop a region- wide knowledge and plan to promote suitable growth and preservation. The end result was a series of maps – all of which are included in this comprehensive plan – outlining various aspects each community felt was important for the well-being of the community and its residents.

• Historic Barns of Foster, Rhode Island (2010) – RIHPHC funded this study as part of a regional pilot program to determine the feasibility of completing a statewide survey on historical barns throughout Rhode Island. Like the intent of the

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 33

statewide historical survey, this survey is meant to help preserve both the historical and cultural heritage of Rhode Island farmlands. In addition to RIHPHC, numerous residents volunteered to search out and photograph the various barns throughout Foster. Historic Barns is available through the RIHPHC and the Planning Department.

Local Interest and Programs Foster Preservation Society is the primary organization involved in historic preservation locally and an active collaborator with both the town and the state. Examples of this include its involvement in supporting RIHPHC’s nominations of historic places to the NRHP and compiling a video related to the Historic Barns survey available for purchase. The group also works independently to provide educational lectures at area libraries and schools. FPS also houses a large collection of several hundred historical documents, genealogical records, photographs, postcards and tax lists at its office in the historic Meeting House. In more recent years, the digital recording of interviews with local residents has also begun as an additional resource for future generations.

NATIONALLY REGISTERED HISTORIC PLACES The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is the United States’ official inventory of places to be preserved due to their historical significance in one or more areas. The register was established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. It affords a limited form of protection for buildings, objects, sites and structures from potentially damaging federally-funded projects and programs through a review process as well as eligibility for certain tax credit benefits for certified rehabilitations. It also establishes eligibility for federal grants-in-aid for rehabilitation and restoration work. As of 2016, the NRHP (as well as the Rhode Island Register of Historic Places which offers similar protections and benefits as the NRHP at the state level) recognizes over 700 places in Rhode Island, including four historic districts, three buildings, one farm and a prehistoric archaeological site in Foster: • Captain George Dorrance House (listed March 16, 1972) – The Dorrance House, located on its original site on Jencks Road, is a 2.5 story, two room gable roof house with a rear lean-to containing three additional rooms. The original house dates to c. 1720 and the lean-to dates to c. 1750. Nearly all the home’s exterior and interior appears the same presently as it did in the mid-eighteenth century. It has been identified as historically significant for its architecture and has been preserved in excellent condition.

• Mount Vernon Tavern (listed May 8, 1974) – The Mount Vernon Tavern, located on its original site on PlainfieldDRAFT Pike nearby the intersection with Howard Hill Road, is also known as the Bank House Tavern and is a 2.5 story, gable roof clapboard house with a 1.5 story ell. The home dates to c. 1760 (though a portion of the home demolished in the late nineteenth century likely dated back to c. 1740) has been previously used as a private residence and a tavern while the ell, added in the early nineteenth century, was used as a general store and post office. It has been identified as historically significant for its architecture and commercial and communications roles and has been preserved in good condition.

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 34

• Foster Center Historic District (listed May 11, 1974) – The Foster Center Historic District is centered on the intersection of Foster Center Road, Howard Hill Road and South Killingly Road. Contributing buildings, sites and structures include: the Arnold Farm Barn (c. 1830), Baptist Parsonage (c. 1882), Benjamin Eddy Building (1904), Dr. Mowry Arnold House (c. 1800), Ely Aylsworth House (c. 1780; currently used as the police station), Foster Center Baptist Church (1882), Foster Center Public Library-Hemlock School (before 1847) Foster Town Jail (c. 1910 [ moved]), Foster Town Pound (1732), Hopkins House (c. 1800), Job Randall’s Blacksmith Shop (c. 1901), Town House (1796; currently used as the FPS office), Thomas Hammond House (1756) and Welcome Rood Tavern (c. 1780 [main section c. 1820]). The district has been identified for its architecture as well as its roles in agriculture, commerce, education, industry, politics and religion. The Winsor Blacksmith Shop is a contributing resource within Foster Center constructed in 1870. It was relocated from its original site on Winsor Road to its present location adjacent to the Town House in 1994 following its donation to FPS in 1993 (both occurring after Foster Center’s historic district designation). Efforts to restore the building and the artifacts within were recognized by RIHPHC in 1995 and demonstrations of the blacksmith trade take place at the shop several times throughout the year.

• Mt. Hygeia/Solomon Drown House (listed August 12, 1977) – Mt. Hygeia, located on Mt. Hygeia Road, is a 2.5 story, gable roof clapboard house built in 1808. It also includes a one story ell added in the mid-nineteenth century. Among several outbuildings previously on the property, one still stands at the foot of the driveway which was used as a waiting place for mail and grocery deliveries. The house and gardens were opened as a museum in the early twentieth century which closed in 1941. A succeeding owner then reconstructed a small barn on the property in the mid-twentieth century. Mt. Hygeia is identified as historically significant for it architecture and landscape architecture and its roles in agriculture, literature, science and medicine.

• Hopkins Mills Historic District (listed May 10, 1984) – The Hopkins Mills Historic District is located along Old Danielson Pike between Danielson Pike (Route 6) and Ram Tail Road. Contributing buildings, sites and structures include: the Barnet Hopkins House (c. 1810), Bennett Holden House/South Foster Post Office (c. 1770 and c. 1810), Cooke House (1905), Curtis Hall (c. 1830, c. 1850 and later), Curtis House (c. 1885), Cyrus Arnold House (c. 1845), Dolly Cole House (c. 1865), Ezekial Hopkins-William Potter House (c. 1720 and later), Henry Davis House (possibly c. 1850), Henry Davis Store/Hopkins Store (c. 1842), Hopkins Mills Cemetery (RI Historical Cemetery 45), Hopkins Mills Pond Site (c. 1723-1960), Hopkins Mills Schoolhouse (c. 1820), John Fenner Hopkins Farm (c. 1910), L. Rounds House (c. 1865),DRAFT Nathaniel Stone House (1823), Ponagansett Grange No. 54 (c. 1928), Ralph Tucker House (c. 1910), Potter House (c. 1845 and c. 1920), South Foster Union Chapel/Hopkins Mills Union Church (1869-1871), a barn (c. 1870 and c. 1920) and a second barn (possibly c. 1890). The district is identified for its architecture and roles in agriculture, commerce, religion and transportation.

• Breezy Hill Site (RI-957) (listed September 28, 1985) – The Breezy Hill site is an archaeological site containing Native American artifacts. Its address is restricted by the National Park Service (NPS).

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 35

• Moosup Valley Historic District (listed May 11, 1988) – Moosup Valley Historic District is a small agricultural area centered on a hamlet containing community facilities. It is located along Cucumber Hill Road, Harrington Road, Johnson Road and Moosup Valley Road. Over 100 contributing resources (the largest number among any historic districts in Foster), including 42 buildings, 60 structures, 18 sites and one object ranging in date from c. 1704 to 1938, are located within its boundaries. The district is identified for its architecture as well as its agricultural, commercial, exploration/settlement and transportation roles.

• Clayville Historic District (listed December 29, 1988) – Clayville Historic District is a small crossroads mill village lying partially in Foster and neighboring Scituate along Cole Avenue, Field Hill Road, Plainfield Pike and Pleasant Lane. Over 100 contributing resources, including 48 buildings, 60 structures, and one site date from c. 1720 to 1925, are located within its boundaries. The Clayville Christian Church (1867-1871) and its cemetery are the most prominent of these in the portion lying in Foster. The district is identified for its architecture as well as its agricultural, exploration/settlement and industrial roles.

• Borders Farm (listed July 29, 2009) – Borders Farm, also known as the George Phillips House, is a small historic district consisting of two contributing resources - Phillips Farm at 31 North Road and the Allen Hill Farm at 41 North Road. Along with one non-contributing resource, the district contains nearly 200 acres of open field and woodland including land for tilling, hay and pasture. It has been identified for it agricultural significance dating from 1840 to 1959.

ADDITIONAL PLACES OF SIGNIFICANCE In addition to the more than 250 buildings, sites and structures listed individually or as a contributing resource to a historic district, Foster includes many more places of historical significance not included on the NRHP. The following list is comprised of properties which the Town of Foster is aware of and is not a complete inventory of all places of historical significance: • Abram Walker Farm – the farm is located on South Killingly Road and consists of a traditional center-chimney house (c. 1780) accompanied by several outbuildings including sheds, a well house and a shingle barn.

• A. Bennett House – 1849, North Road

• Beriah Collins House – c. 1760 and 1790, Old Plainfield Pike • Burgess Farm DRAFT– the c.1820 … is located on … and … • Captain John Randall House – before 1784 and c. 1920, Kennedy Road

• Colegrove-Hammond House/Thomas Hammond’s Tavern – c. 1755 et seq., South Killingly Road

• Daniel Colwell House – c. 1755-1772, Theodore Foster Drive

• Deacon Daniel Hopkins House – c. 1810, Balcom Road

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 36

• Dick Wall’s House

• Ernie Ross Farm

• Ezekiel Hopkins-William Potter House – c. 1720 et seq., Old Danielson Pike

• Ezekiel Hopkins, Jr. House – c. 1820 and 1840, Burgess Road

• Former Oak Tree Tavern – c.1875, 1910 and 1974, Foster Center Road

• Henry Davis House – c.1865?, Old Danielson Pike

• Jacob Phillips/James Manchester Wright House – c. 1770 and 1820, Foster Center Road

• Jencks School House – the one story, one room school house (1647) located near the intersection of Foster Center Road and Victory Highway was in use as recently as 1952. It was converted into a private residence in the 1970s and now includes a one-story addition.

• John T. Randall Wheelwright Shop – c. 1800 et seq., Howard Hill Road

• Lyon Farm – c. 1895, Howard Hill Road

• Woodland Meeting House/ Maple Glen Tavern/G. Simmons House – c. 1760, East Killingly Road

• Mt. Hygeia School House – the one story, one room school house (c. 1840) located on Hartford Pike was in use as recently as 1952. It is the only one of seven remaining school houses in the town which is un-remodeled.

• Nathaniel Stone House – c. 1823, Old Danielson Pike

• Nehemiah Angell Barn – the barn (c. 1790) was donated to FPS in 2016 and was used to hold agricultural tools and shelter animals (the original animal stalls remain). It may also have been used to store a wagon and small sleigh. Sill rotting and its resulting settling over time has occurred due to water infiltration of the barn’s foundation.

• North Foster Free Will Baptist Church – 1848, East Killingly Road • Paine BennettDRAFT Farm • Peleg Aylsworth Gristmill/Sawmill site – c. 1797

• Phillips-Wright House – c. 1765, Foster Center Road

• Simmons Braid Mill – c. 1905-1960, Old Danielson Pike

• “Stone House” – before 1806, 1815 and 1974, Danielson Pike

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 37

• William Harrington Farm – the historic dairy farm is located at the intersection of Cucumber Hill Road and Harrington Road and consists of 1.5 story, gable roof house (1858) with a 1.5 story ell and a large shingle barn (1917). Unlike many historic farms, the house and barn are under separate ownership. The barn has previously been endangered by potential demolition in the later 2000s but remains standing as of 2016.

• Winsor House – c.1720 and 1740, Winsor Road

• World War II Airplane Spotter’s Hut – c. 1942, Victory Highway

• W. H. Collins Bobbin Mill – c.1865, Old Plainfield Pike

• Dolly Cole Bridge – 1923, Old Danielson Pike

• Plainfield Pike – the colonial era Plainfield Pike, which generally aligns with the present Plainfield Pike except where Old Plainfield Pike still exists, was used by the French Expeditionary Force travelling from Providence to Yorktown, Virginia in support of the colonies during the American Revolutionary War. Today, it is part of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route (W3R), a National Historic Trail.

• Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge – although the existing bridge was rebuilt in 1994, after its predecessor, dedicated one year earlier, was burned by vandals, it is an adaptation of a Towne lattice truss covered bridge, used in the early nineteenth century and was built by volunteers using locally sourced oak and pine. The bridge is the only covered bridge on a public roadway (Central Pike) in Rhode Island.

Cemeteries Cemeteries are valuable resources to a better understanding of social traditions observed in Foster over the past centuries. RIHCC has identified 159 historical cemeteries throughout Foster. Of these, 158 of were confirmed to stand alone while one (Cemetery FR104) may be a duplicate of another (Cemetery FR127). Overall, these cemeteries together hold more than 8,100 burials. Stone markers indicate 1760 as the earliest year of recorded deaths. Beginning in 2011, FPS has conducted a survey of historical cemeteries meant to provide an update to the last survey conducted by RIHCC. Among the results to date, over 300 inscriptions previously recorded have been identified as duplications or are now illegible while more than 400 not previously recorded have now been documented. Cemetery FR094 has also been identified as being part of Cemetery FR093. The survey also identified where cemeteries lacked clear DRAFT signage and is working to update all historical cemetery signs to allow them greater visibility.

Stone Walls As described in RIHPHC’s survey of Foster, early growth in the local agriculture and forestry industries resulted in the cutting down of much of the town’s hardwood forests by the mid nineteenth century. The increase of farmable land supported an increase in both the number of properties available for purchase and the size of the properties. Stone walls were used to delineate the boundaries between properties as well as the boundaries between different agricultural activities.

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 38

Over time, these historic resources have become an increasingly common target of theft due to their agricultural and rural symbolism. The State of Rhode Island’s Leona Kelley Act (Rhode Island General Law [RIGL] §11-41-32) supports legal action against any person found guilty of removing a stone wall without permission of its owner to protect these structures. In January 2016, the Town amended its Zoning Ordinance to provide four general provisions to ensure any proposed alterations, relocations, excavations, dismantling or demolition of stone walls are identified in planning processes. Additional guidelines to protect other stone walls are also outlined.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Events and Recognitions The Town of Foster observes all state and federal holidays and parades are held in the community for Memorial Day (last Monday in May) and Veterans Day (November 11). Many of its residents, as well as visitors from neighboring towns, also attend Old Home Days held annually in late July. Established as Old Home Day in 1904 to raise funds for the preservation of the Baptist Meeting House (later used as and now called the Town House), the celebration has expanded over the decades in both its size and time length. A community dinner is still held on Friday evening with food prepared using the original recipes from 1904. During Old Home Days, the Town of Foster has also honored select residents with Citizen of the Year Awards for their dedication and service to the municipality. Services Awards have also been given by the Town for residents’ work in the community. The oldest resident of Foster is also given the honorary title Holder of the Boston Post Cane. Foster’s Boston Post Cane is an ornamental cane first bestowed upon its oldest resident in 1909 from the Boston Post. The gift was part of a campaign by the newspaper company which distributed canes to the oldest residents of cities and towns throughout New England in the early twentieth century. It deteriorated and increased in rarity over the century and was ultimately acquired by the Town in 2007. Efforts to restore the cane have been successful and, though it has been retired for use, it is publicly displayed in the Town Hall. Several properties in Foster are said to be haunted and ghost touring is a popular local pastime, particularly in October leading up to Halloween. The “Grange Hall Ghost”, an apparition of a workman with a shovel, is said to appear in front of the Moosup Valley Grange Hall at night, walk past the cemetery, and/or sit or stand on the nearby bridge. The grave of Dolly Cole, “the Witch of Foster” is said to be visited by a mysterious lady in white. The ruins of the Ram Tail Mill areDRAFT said to be haunted by the spirit of caretaker Peleg Walker who reportedly hung himself from the bell rope during the Mill’s heyday. The Mill ruins have become a local mecca for ghost hunters from within and outside the state. Whatever the merits of any specific claim to haunting, the concept of haunted places is a part of Foster culture, visiting local haunts is a form of recreation, and investigating paranormal claims in Foster is a mainstay for paranormal hobbyists and entertainers.

Arts The Libraries of Foster, whose services are discussed in detail in the Chapter on Services and Facilities, provide several opportunities for residents to engage in various cultural activities.

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 39

Recent programs have included afterschool filmmaking for students and cooking classes for adults inspired by local farmer’s markets.

The Foster-Glocester School District provides students opportunities to study and engage in various visual and performing arts including animation, ceramics, drawing, musical instruments, photography and singing.

Swamp Meadow Community Theatre (SMCT) was established in fall 2002 by a young resident with support from numerous volunteers and the now-defunct FosteringArts. Since 2003, SMCT has put on nearly 50 productions and begun the SMCT Creative Studio which seeks to produce animation and cartoons, podcasts, radio plays and short films (SMCT intends to host a regionally juried short film festival in the future). It has been the recipient of funding by another local organization - Citizens and Students Together (CAST). CAST has also been a sponsor of Summer Shakespeare, two outdoor performances of William Shakespeare’s plays performed annually by Trinity Repertory Theatre.

Artist Open Studios (AOS) is a collective of eleven artists in northwestern Rhode Island who demonstrate several artistic mediums to the public in their creative spaces – barns. Many of the artists involved have been active for several decades and their works have been showcased in galleries and museums throughout New England.

PROJECTED CONDITIONS

ANTICIPATED ACCOMPLISHMENTS Historical resources require continued maintenance to ensure they remain in a condition which allows for their future use, visitation and contribution to Foster’s rural character. As of 2016, the community can expect several projects and actions to be done by or continued into 2037: • Nehemiah Angell Barn – donated by the Town of Foster to FPS in 2016, applications for funding the barn’s needed restoration were ongoing as of that same year. It is expected that work will be successfully completed once financial support is received.

• Abrams Walker Farm – the Walker House was previously listed on FPS’ Most Endangered Properties list due to its deteriorating condition for several years. The property was since acquired by a private owner who has confirmed an interest in preserving theDRAFT home. It is no longer listed among the FPS’ Most Endangered Properties.

• Historical cemeteries – signage will be installed at all historical cemeteries to ensure their locations are identifiable and protected

• Historical collections – FPS, in an ongoing effort, will continue to enlarge its collection of artifacts, documents, recorded interviews and other materials pertaining to local history

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 40

The strength of tradition in the community also indicates the continuation of and involvement in its cultural resources for years to come, including Old Home Days, local parades and artistic programs in its libraries and schools. As indicated by employment data from the past several years (see Chapter # for more information), the arts, entertainment and recreation industry is also slowly expanding locally.

FUTURE CHALLENGES Presently, there are three buildings which the Foster Preservation Society identifies as being most at-risk of permanent loss in the future: • Mt. Hygeia School House –as noted above, this eighteenth-century school house is the only one which has remained unaltered since its construction. The building, now privately owned and used for storage, has experienced deterioration including the loss of its windows’ glass panes.

• Mt. Hygeia/Solomon Drown House – the NRHP-listed building has experienced notable deterioration since its last major restoration effort (the installation of new clapboarding and roofing) was completed in the 1990s

• South Foster Union Chapel – the one-story building, constructed in the late Greek Revival style for use as a non-denominational place of religious worship, is owned by the South Foster Union Chapel Society. A grant obtained by the Chapel Society previously supported the installation of a new roof but additional needed work cannot be performed due to a lack of funding. This limitation in resources is also coming at time of declining membership in the Chapel Society.

While not among the Most Endangered Properties, there are several other places whose future conditions are of concern to FPS: • Ely Aylsworth House – the current police station, a contributing resource to the Foster Center Historic District, presented numerous concerns when assessed by a fire marshal prior to the Police Department’s occupation.

• Fuller Farm

• Halsworth House

• John Harrington Cave

• Rambone Dairy Farm • Simmons BarnDRAFT • Stan Winsor House

• Thomas Brayton House

• Town House

• Tyler Free Library – the library’s children’s collection is currently located in the Moosup Valley School House (1811), which was the original building on the library’s current site. The original library building (1900) was relocated to the school

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 41

house’s site on Moosup Valley Road in the 1960s, at which time an addition was constructed to join the two. As of 2016, Libraries of Foster (which also operates Foster Public Library on Howard Hill Road) was seeking property to build a new library.

• Welcome Rood Tavern

• William Cowell Farm

General threats to historical resources throughout town include negligence of property (either voluntary or involuntary) by their owners, the subdivision of properties resulting in buildings and structures being subjugated to new regulations and the needs of historical resources competing with the needs of the reservoir system and the various agencies and departments of the municipal, state and federal governments. As examples, two historical bridges – the Anthony Road Bridge and the Hopkins Mills Bridge – were taken down by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) in spring 2013 and winter 2014, respectively.

ASSESSMENT OF PROJECTED CONDITIONS

COMMUNITY VALUE A primary factor in promoting preservation of community resources, both natural and cultural, is a sense of stewardship. This philosophy entails viewing property not as a commodity, but as a non-renewable resource which needs to be protected for future enjoyment. Historic buildings are particularly appropriate for stewardship roles in that they have existed for many years prior to their present ownership and are physical records of the heritage of the town, which is a possession of not any one individual but of the community and its residents. The single most important attribute of Foster is its scenic quality and integrity. The historic and cultural resources in each of the listed historic districts derive their significance not as individual buildings or structures, but as a whole. The cultural landscape is significant as the identity of Foster, and it provides a sense of place which is distinct to the residents of the community. Concerns regarding development continue to be expressed by people in the community, especially development which has occurred since the 1990s. In 1990, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) published a statewide inventory of the state’s most scenic areas entitled “The Rhode Island Landscape Inventory.” The inventory included rural farmsteads, small urban mill villages, town commons and ubiquitousDRAFT agricultural lands bounded by stone walls. These features are all present in Foster. The Town concurs with RIDEM that “the scenic or aesthetic value of the traditional landscape lies in its unique scenic resources. People tend to appreciate landscapes which define where they live and make their ‘home’ or their part of the country special and identifiable from other areas.” This sense of place becomes lost when new development is not sensitive to the character and integrity of local conditions, both environmental and built. Much of the town’s historic built environment remains intact, due in part to many restorations or rehabilitations over the years. Simultaneously, however, alterations to many of Foster’s historic homes have taken place impacting their ability to

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 42

more tangibly contribute to the town’s history and character. Other structures have been abandoned, while some fields have been overgrown or returned to woodland. While a listing on the NRHP regulates the federal and state agency activities and funding that may affect the integrity of those resources included, there is no local protection in the Town’s regulations against the alteration or demolition of historic buildings and structures. To date, there have been no large scale commercial or residential developments which have radically altered the relationship of historic buildings and farms to the landscape, but current zoning regulations do not restrict this from happening. Arguably the most serious threat to retaining the historical identity of the town is the introduction of development which mirrors the commercial and residential patterns and designs which have urbanized other communities in the state over the past decades. The qualities of urban and suburban development do not complement the historic development or rural character which defines the Town of Foster. The local character has been the culmination of scattered historic farms, forests, fields, streams and small clusters of buildings and structures reflecting hamlets. While zoning regulations require revisions to better support the Town’s retention of its history, the character of scattered farms in the landscape is further enhanced by the small setback many of these buildings have from Foster’s rural roads due to the ordinance. Many farmhouses and barns are actually set straddling Foster’s roads. The current zoning setback requirements will not allow this pattern to be continued without a dimensional variance or deviations however; hence new houses are built with greater setbacks on frontage lots. Fortunately, many of these new houses have been built with a buffer between house and road filled by trees and other vegetation, essentially screening these homes and allowing the scenic landscapes along roadways to remain largely undisrupted. As is pointed out in the Land Use chapter, Foster was mostly zoned for a uniform 200,000 square foot minimum lot size pattern of residential development with the supposition that the rural character of the town can be preserved with such regulation. The assessment of this, however, found this dimensional regulation to allow sprawling uniform development along Foster’s roads. Likewise, the process for subdividing made new development patterns in rear portions of larger lots alien to the development taking place before such regulations were established.

ECONOMIC VALUE Many previous studies of various communities throughout the country (and beyond its borders), have demonstrated that retaining and enhancing historic resources and scenic areas produce a stabilizing effect upon local economies and tax revenue. These resources attract reinvestment in a community and instill in residents a real sense of place which reinforces their desire to stay in theDRAFT community and contribute to its well-being. Historic resources have been used as economic development tools in many rural New England towns and villages. Models exist for this use in the Connecticut River Valley and throughout the State of Vermont, where resources have been preserved as they are (as opposed to museums), and a strong local economy has developed. Growing in a managed and sensitive way will retain opportunities for town residents and provide a future for the tax base improved from the present.

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 43

OVERLAY ZONING Historic overlay district zoning may be one tool to explore which will provide a reasonable mechanism to allow new additions, alterations and construction in Foster’s historic districts without jeopardizing their integrity and character. Such a district would only address the exterior appearance of buildings and structures within distinctive geographic boundaries. The use of the property would remain dictated by the zoning district in which it is located. With this overlay district in place, a body of these overlay districts’ residents would be appointed by the Town to evaluate the compatibility and affect of exterior alterations to structures within the overlay district’s bounds. A certificate of appropriateness would be needed from the body before a building permit for construction could be issued by the Building Official. To ensure the role of such a body is checked, enabling legislation for historic district zoning by the state has safeguarded property owners from arbitrary and unreasonable demands from such bodies. A set of standards and design guidelines for compatible alterations must be adopted and closely adhered to by each body so that members’ individual aesthetic preferences do not factor into whether a proposed alteration is approved or denied.

GUIDE AND MANAGEMENT PLANS In addition to or in conjunction with Historic District Zoning, the development of individual management or conservation plans may be another tool for historic preservation. Patterned after planning for the preservation of unique and critical natural resources, this tool is also known as special area management planning. The development of special area management plans (SAMPs) for Foster Center, Clayville, Hopkins Mills and Moosup Valley should include a rigorous inventory and analysis of historic resources, land use and environmental features within each place. Management strategies should also be included through the active participation of village residents. These strategies could then be adopted by the Town for inclusion in the Comprehensive Plan and future implementation. A specific guide plan for managing these resources is an important tool to use for their preservation. The 1982 RIHPHC survey contained the town’s first Historic Preservation Plan. While many of the recommendations included in the survey have been implemented, many concerns relating to historic preservation are still relevant and require the town’s attention nearly 30 years later. These include: • Changing land use patterns can quickly alter the character of Foster unless careful and timely consideration is given to how, where, and why development changes will occur

• The overall environment, both natural and built, is important due to its present ability to evoke the past and to mirror and preserve physical evidence of early nineteenth century agrarian andDRAFT small town New England, the bulk of which of which is being lost throughout the region

• By including historical resources in the 1991 Comprehensive Plan and subsequent revisions (including this 2016 update), it is possible to include the preservation of Foster’s heritage as an integral component with managing growth and the future development of the town, managing the preservation of environmental features and, open space, and integrating compatible opportunities for economic development

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 44

• Items 1, 2c and d, 3a through c, 4, 5, 6, 7a, b, and d, 8, 9, 10a through c, and on 11 under Planning for the Built Environment in the 1982 “Foster, Rhode Island, Statewide Historical Preservation Report P-F-1” have not been fully accomplished as of 2016

• No items under Planning for the Land in the 1982 Comprehensive Plan have been fully accomplished as of 2016, all items need to be addressed (thus, these items are now more valid in 2016 than 1982)

Managing historic and scenic resources protection is a significant and integral component of this Plan. A primary vehicle for Town guidance, and regulation of change to the cultural landscape of Foster, is the Farmland-Rural Conservation Overlay District, which includes areas of primary historic and scenic value for protection. In addition to this district, the Town will consider future historic district zoning for protection of village character as well as significant individual resources. Development of a Conservation Zoning Ordinance is needed to prevent “suburbanization’ in new development, by varying setback regulations and building placement in accordance with the particular property and its scenic and cultural features. Educational and cultural heritage activities, many conducted by the Foster Preservation Society and by land trusts including the Foster Land Trust, are encouraged and supported. Economic development will be guided by sensitivity to the Town’s historic resources and scenic qualities. Zoning and Subdivision Regulations – Zoning setback and height regulations have an influence upon the preservation of historic resources. Subdivision regulations which are insensitive to historic properties and contain requirements for the standardization to suburban development patterns have a profound influence on the preservation of the character of historic farms, including farmhouses, farm buildings and their settings. Both zoning and subdivision regulations can be modified to allow for greater flexibility – allowing for change that is in tune with the existing character of the area. Conservation Zoning which provides variable lot requirements, and flexible zoning standards, are tools that provide opportunities for new development which does not adversely affect the integrity of historical areas. In addition, site plan review is a technique by which review boards and agencies can evaluate specific locations of buildings, parking areas, circulation roads, landscaping, and buffer areas to mitigate impact. DRAFT

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 45

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

DRAFT

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 46

Goals Objectives Policies Actions

DRAFT

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 47

Evaluate new planned development and subdivision Incorporate historic, development cultural and scenic regarding impacts to preservation into our historic buildings, overall planning and cultural and scenic development areas considerations, particularly economic Develop special area development activities management (SAM) and the approval of plans for the historic new development villages, including but The establishment projects near historic, not limited to Foster To preserve and of a Historic District cultural or scenic Center, Clayville, protect the Commission for resources Moosup Valley and integrity of the dealing with issues Hopkins Mills; historic, cultural regarding the Encourage the ongoing providing for the and scenic sites, protection of, and programs of the Foster preservation and districts and any future Preservation Society enhancement of each landscapes which development within village’s unique provide Foster with the Town’s Historic Encourage the identity and character its historical, Districts listed in preservation of cultural and scenic the National privately owned Work with the Foster identity and Register of Historic historic buildings, Preservation Society to integrate such Places to wit: the cultural sites, and develop a design preservation and villages of Clayville, scenic areas guidelines manual for protection by Hopkins Mills, renovations to historic diminishing the Foster Center and Encourage the properties, and work potential adverse Moosup Valley continuation of with the Society to effects of future community-wide distribute the manual growth and The continued celebrations such as to local property development; preservation and Foster Old Home Days owners thereby protection of all maintaining and Town-owned Encourage the Continue to work with enhancing the historic, cultural continuation of the Foster Land Trust quality of life in and scenic sites cultural and on the acquisition of Foster for residents from adverse community activities historic, cultural and and visitors alike effects of on-going such as Swamp scenic easements as a development Meadow Community way to preserve Theatre historic, cultural and scenic resources DRAFTAll community commissions and Work with the Foster agencies should Preservation Society to recognize the design and distribute contribution of historic interpretive brochures resources and of Foster’s cultural landscape to the landscape character of the town Work with the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission Historical and Cultural Resources Page 48

DRAFT

Historical and Cultural Resources Page 49

POPULATION

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ CURRENT CONDITIONS

❖ PROJECTED CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENT OF PROJECTED CONDITIONS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION

For all aspects of Foster’s future, from its services and facilities Chapter to its growing economy and particularly its natural resources, it is important to understand the characteristics of the people who will live, work and visit here over the next two decades. Estimating how the population is projected to grow and change is critically important to the decisions that will be made to ensure water supply, wastewater, food, energy, recreation, housing and health and safety meet the needs of the community. This Chapter provides this necessary understanding by presenting and analyzing historic data and anticipated future conditions.

CURRENT CONDITIONS

DEMOGRAPHICS The United States Bureau of the Census is responsible for identifying the official population of the United States on a decennial basis (conducted during years ending in ‘0’). As of 2010, the population for Foster was 4,606. This was a notable increase from 2000 and a reverse of the negative growth between 1990 and 2000 which had interrupted several decades of increasing population. Even while returning to growth, however, Foster remained the third least- populated community in Rhode Island and the least populated in Providence County – a stark contrast to the state capital located just 20 miles east.

In addition to basic counts, the US Census also collects information on social and socioeconomic demographics as well as housing, finances and labor-related data. While the 2010 Census and future censuses will no longer (at this time) collect the same level of information as the 2000 Census and previous censuses, the American Community Survey (ACS) provides unofficial estimates on much of this through a timelier publishing schedule than once every ten years.

Public Services and Facilities Page 50

Age The median age of residents in 2010 was 44.8 years. This was several years older than Rhode Island’s median age of 39.4 (as well as Foster’s own median age in 2000) and was like other rural towns including Exeter and neighboring Glocester. The table below presents Foster’s population by age in groups commonly used to represent different generations.

Table //: Age Groups, 2000 to 2014 2000 2010 2010-14

Under 18 years 1,105 986 803

18 to 34 years 621 649 941 35 to 49 years 1,294 1,172 1,029 50 to 64 years 807 1,208 1,209 65 to 84 years 391 516 534 85 years and over 56 75 126 Tot al 4,274 4,606 4,642

Source: 2000 Census, 2010 Census and 2010-14 ACS

Looking at the official counts (2000 and 2010) of these age groups, this table may present the reason for the community’s median aging. The population aged 50 years and over increased by 545 residents, with nearly one out of every four of these residents being between 50 and 64 years, while the population aged 49 years and under fell by 213. The 18 to 34 years’ age group was an outlier in this general trend however, growing slightly since at least the new millennium. ACS estimates for the period 2010 to 2014 indicated this growth had accelerated more recently, overtaking the under 18 years’ age group as the third largest. A significant gain in the population aged 85 year or older was also estimated.

Race, Sex and Ethnicity Foster was one of only six communities in the state with a majority male population as of the 2010 Census (50.43 percent), though the difference between the female and male populations was insignificant at less than one percent. Previously, in 2000, the female population held a slight majority of 50.09 percent. The inverse continued after 2010 however, as the ACS for the 2010 to 2014 period estimated the female population dropped further to 48.59 percent. DRAFT The combined non-white population identifying as a single race showed limited growth, in contrast to the female population, increasing from 1.38 percent of the total population in 2000 to 2.22 percent in 2010 (Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander was the only single race to decrease in number over the decade). The Hispanic/Latino population also experienced minor growth and retained its status as the largest single minority among any race or ethnicity at 1.26 percent. Out of these demographics, the male, female, American Indian and Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander populations closely reflected the demographic profile of Rhode Island. The black or African American, Asian, some

Public Services and Facilities Page 51

other single race and Hispanic or Latino populations were comparably smaller components of total population in Foster than in the state however.

HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS Households are a basic and important component of any city or town, serving as a foundation which society is structured and built on. Defined as the number of housing units with one or more occupants, the number of households is always equivalent to the number of occupied housing units in a place. Foster had 1,707 households at the time of the 2010 Census, of which 1,302 (76.27 percent) were families and 405 (23.73 percent) were nonfamilies. The average household size was 2.68 persons and 99.50 percent of the local population resided in a household (meaning, conversely, 23 people lived outside of a family or nonfamily).

Families and Nonfamilies Households are identified as families when they contain at least two people related to one another by adoption, birth or marriage. The 2010 Census included three sub-family categories: husband-wife families, female householder with no husband present and male householder with no wife present. A large majority of families in Foster (84.02 percent) were husband-wife families while a minority (38.79 percent) included children under 18 years old. The average family size was 3.05 persons. Households with only one occupant or no occupants related to any other occupants by adoption, birth or marriage are nonfamilies. More than three out of every four nonfamilies in Foster (78.77 percent) consisted of residents living alone.

EMPLOYMENT AND INCOME The economic recession which occurred in the later 2000s had a particularly strong and extended impact on Rhode Island and its municipalities. The following table shows the shifts in industry employment which occurred among civilian workers aged 16 years and over from Foster between 2005 and 2014, as estimated by the ACS.

FIGURE //

Agriculture and mining Art, recreation, accomodations and food service Construction Education, health care and social assistance Finance, insurance, real estate and leasings Information DRAFTManufacturing Other services Professional and management services Public administration Retail Transportation, warehousing and utilities Wholesale 0 10 20 30 40

2005-09 2010-14 Source: 2005-2009 and 2010-2014 ACS

Public Services and Facilities Page 52

Between the two five year periods, there was a net increase of 291 workers among a total increase of 676 workers. This means more than half of the total increase (56.95 percent) was atributable to existing workers entering new industries, which would represent 15.14 percent of the 2010-2014 civilian force. The largest growth occurred in educational services and health care and social assistance (332), manufacturing (194) and arts, entertainment and recreation and accommodation and food services (86). Losses were experienced in transportation and warehousing and utilities (-107), construction (-95), and finance and insurance and real estate and rental and leasing (-63).

One outcome of the shifts in industries has been a change in household income. For 2010-2014, the ACS estimated the median household income (MHI) for Foster in the past twelve months as $80,720 (2014 value) placing it among the highest MHIs in both Providence County and Rhode Island. When adjusting for inflation however, the 2010-2014 estimate was $1,704.20 less than the 1999 MHI. Reflecting this slight decrease, households making $75,000 or more in 2010-14 were 54.45 percent of all households at that time while households making $50,000 or more in 1999 ($75,000 in 2014 was equivalent to about $52,780 in 1999) were 56.35 percent of all households.

PROJECTED CONDITIONS

POPULATION PROJECTIONS, 2015-2040 As noted previously, the population of Foster was officially 4,606 in 2010. Although another official count will not be conducted until 2020, the US Census Bureau has provided more recent numbers for the population. The 2010-2014 ACS estimated a local population of 4,642 and an official Census estimate for 2015 was 4,698.

In 2013, the Rhode Island Statewide Planning Program (RISPP) prepared population projections for all 39 municipalities in addition to demographic projections at the state level. In comparison to the official Census estimate, RISPP projected Foster’s population to be 4,632 in 2015, slightly more conservative than the Census estimate but also conducted two years previously. Further projections by RISPP were made at five-year intervals out to 2040, three years beyond the timeframe of this plan's focus. In 2040, the population was projected to be 5,101. Table // presents an overview of Foster’s historical (blue) and projected (green) population growth over aDRAFT century stretching from 1940 to 2040.

Public Services and Facilities Page 53

FIGURE // – FOSTER POPULATION GROWTH 6,000

4,500

3,000

1,500

0 1900 1950 2000 2050 2100Sources: US Census Bureau and Rhode Island Statewide Planning Program

The net addition of 495 people expected in Foster from 2010 to 2040 will be the smallest increase (10.75 percent) of any thirty-year period since at least 1940-1970. The 1980-2010 growth rate was 36.68 percent and the 1940-1970 growth rate was 112.29 percent. While it is highly unlikely RISPP’s projections will perfectly match future official counts, they reliably present trends expected in the coming years.

DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGES, 2015-2040 In its future population modeling, RISPP found migration to be the predominant factor in statewide population change. A total of 23,247 migrants will enter Rhode Island at some time between 2015 and 2040. Many will choose to reside here permanently, expanding the state’s social diversity but not reversing the contemporary trend of aging in the 2020s and early 2030s. Asian and Hispanic/Latino populations, which commonly have larger family sizes than the white population, will lead this migratory growth as well as growth among other traditional minority groups. These changes will be reflected in every city’s and town’s future populations, including Foster. Considering the town was projected to have a net increase of only about 500 residents between 2010 and 2040, however (Providence, in comparison, was projected to have a net increase of more than twenty-five times that), it is not expected that local demographics will change considerably.

Age In considering the effects of migration, this plan also reviewed geographic mobility and found Foster to be a generally sedentary community. Residents living in the same home one year ago amounted to 93.62 percent of Foster’s population over the age of one, which was very close to estimates for other rural communities including Exeter, neighboring Glocester and Little Compton. Looking beyond a one-year timeframe, 55.92 percent of householders were estimated to have movedDRAFT into their current home prior to 2000 while less than 10 percent had moved since the start of the 2010s. It may also be of interest to point out that geographic mobility was consistent among all age groups, including the population aged 18 to 34 years (of which 91.45 percent had continued to stay in town from one year prior). Notably, this age group also made up more than a third (36.95 percent) of the new residents who did move to Foster from outside the town. This was a greater portion than even the total of new residents aged 45 years and over (29.49 percent).

From the same source, however, Foster was also estimated to have a notably low fertility rate. Based on the number of births in the past 12 months, the 2010-2014 ACS estimated

Public Services and Facilities Page 54

there were only 20 births per 1,000 women aged 15 to 50 years old. This was the seventh lowest rate in the state and the lowest in the county (both ranks were shared with the Town of Smithfield). While the small influx of young adults had some negating effect on current age structure, this is temporary. The youngest of 2014’s 18 to 34 years old population will be 39 years old in 2037 while many will have surpassed 50 years old. In the same year, well over half of the 2010 population (61.05 percent) will have reached 65 years old. Among them, at least 931 persons will have also surpassed the life expectancy of the average Rhode Islander in 2013-2014, 79.9 years.

ASSESSMENT OF PROJECTED CONDITIONS Recognizing and understanding Foster’s residents is critical to assessing all the areas of planning encompassed in the subsequent chapters of this plan. From the historical and projected trends in the local population, the Town of Foster is growing at a more manageable rate than it has in past decades. While a notable portion of this is contributable to younger generations, the senior population continues to grow.

CHANGES IN HOUSEHOLDS Because Foster has an aging population, the number of resident retirees is likely to increase and the number of households occupied by elderly residents on fixed incomes is also likely to increase. This can be expected to increase demand for elderly and low income tax relief as more and more people qualify for existing tax relief programs. It may also lead to an increase in single person households as one or the other members of a two-family household either relocates to assisted living arrangements or passes away, leaving the property with only one occupant. More than overall population growth, shifts in household size and composition shape housing demand. A change in the age and income of householders affects housing demand. DRAFT

Public Services and Facilities Page 55

COMMUNITY SERVICES & FACILITIES

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ EXISTING CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENTS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION Being a small rural community, Foster does not (and cannot) provide the same level of services found in more urban communities. It is a simple fact of rural living that public water and sewers are just not available. These functions are provided by nature. Residents of the Town of Foster rely on natural resources to provide potable water and transmit and purify wastewater. Water supply and wastewater management facilities are the responsibilities of private homeowners. Long-time residents of Foster are self-reliant and accustomed to the mutual assistance of rural living.

The Town of Foster is not located within the Urban Services Boundary identified in Land Use 2025. New development may bring residents from more metropolitan areas of the state and from out of state, who seek the same type of services found in more urban communities. Yet in Foster, options for new development and the density of development are limited and constrained by the suitability of sites for wells and onsite waste water treatment systems (OWTS). New and ongoing construction projects are required to comply with RIDEM’s current permitting and regulations for the location, installation, and standards for the OWTS. Foster is particularly sensitive to the need for proper setbacks in relation to wetlands, streams and watershed lands that impact the local environment, as Foster contains the headwaters for the Scituate Reservoir. The Scituate Reservoir provides the potable water for over 60 percent of the State of Rhode Island, though it does not provide water for the Town’s residents.

The Town provides community services and facilities that are responsive to the needs of residents while sustaining Foster’s rural character, beauty and natural resources and preserving the Town’s culturalDRAFT legacies of self-reliance and neighborly assistance. This chapter contains the current inventory of the existing physical infrastructure and the services provided to the community, a discussion of the future needs of the community and assess whether those needs can be met by existing services and facilities. Going through this analysis will allow the municipality to determine what steps should be taken to meet the future needs and demands of the community. This Chapter also describes any steps required to increase energy efficiency and the development of energy infrastructure.

Public Services and Facilities Page 56

Relationship to Other Chapters

While public works and emergency service facilities are described and assessed in this chapter, recreational facilities and water supply are discussed in the Chapter on Recreation and Open Space. The Cultural Resources chapter discusses the library system as a ‘cultural resource’ and services and facilities related to transportation (road maintenance and improvement) are discussed in the Circulation chapter. Foster’s storm water management system is linked to its roadway system, and is discussed in detail in the Circulation chapter. Development of measures to make infrastructure more resilient are included in the Natural Hazards Chapter.

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Municipal Administration Foster, as part of the Town of Providence, was founded in 1636 and incorporated as its own municipality on August 24, 1781. The Town operates under a Home Rule Charter adopted in 1976 that provides for a Town Council form of government with a five-member Council. Each Town Council member is elected at-large for a term of two years. The council is led by a Town Council President, who is elected by the Town Council members. Per the Town Charter, the Town Council President “shall be recognized as the head of the Town government.” The Town Council President works closely with the Town Clerk, who is also an elected official. The Town Clerk is the Director of the Department of Administration and oversees administration of the Town Hall.

The Town Council is supported and advised by various boards and commissions, members of which are volunteers and are appointed by the Town Council at different intervals. These boards and commissions include the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Review, Board of Canvassers, Recreation Committee, Personnel Board, and the Juvenile Hearing Board.

Finally, there are several appointed officials and department heads who manage specific departments and activities within the Town. They include the Treasurer/Finance Director, Tax Assessor, Tax Collector, Police Chief, Director of Public Works, Town Planner, Building and Zoning Official, and the Human Services Director. All these, except for the Police Chief, have offices within the Town Hall. The support staffs for the various departments are also housed in Town Hall. DRAFT Town Hall Constructed around 1990, the Town Hall is located at 181 Howard Hill Road and houses all administrative offices of the municipality. The maintenance of this building is part of the responsibility of the Department of Public Works. Although the Town Hall is recently constructed, its location and design provide a perfect complement to the neighboring and historic Foster Town House. Despite its recent vintage, the facility needs remodeling and improvements. Improvements such as replacements for leaking windows, a fire escape for the second floor, an elevator to provide ADA accessibility, and finish work on the second floor to make that space useable are currently under consideration.

Public Services and Facilities Page 57

Foster Town House Constructed around 1796, the Foster Town House is located across the parking lot from the Town Hall. The Foster Town House is the oldest meeting house in Rhode Island that has been in continuous use since its construction. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the office of the Foster Preservation Society is in the basement of the building. The Town House is still used for many Town Council meetings, various board meetings, Old Home Days events, and other Town-sponsored activities. Ongoing maintenance and repairs are necessary to preserve this important community landmark.

Benjamin Eddy Building Located at 6 South Killingly Road, this building at one time served as the Foster Town Hall with small half-walls designating the spaces for the Town Clerk and Town Finance Director. After the construction of the current Town Hall, the half walls were removed and the building became a public meeting room. The Town recently completed some energy related upgrades to the building which included installation of new energy efficient windows, replacement of the furnace, and new energy efficient lighting.

At present, the community is well served by these buildings. The only plan for the buildings is regular maintenance and pertinent upgrades, to keep them functioning efficiently. The Town should upgrade its equipment and software and focus on expanding the availability of municipal services on the internet, including making land evidence records available online.

PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Police Department When the Foster Police Department is at full complement, it consists of one Police Chief, nine full time police officers, four full-time and two part-time dispatchers, and one part-time animal control officer. The Town recently increased its number of officers by two. Before the increase in officers, there was only a single police officer on duty during most shifts. If assistance is needed, it is typically requested from neighboring police departments in Glocester or Scituate. On average, there are approximately 13,000 to 15,000 calls for service received and 200 to 250 arrests made per year. In addition to typical police calls related to crime and public disorder, many calls are service-oriented non-emergency situations reflective of small town life.DRAFT Officers also provide volunteer community service. Personnel issues present some of the department’s biggest challenges. With the small number of officers, it is difficult to cover medical and vacation leaves, twice weekly court appearances, collection of evidence, follow-up investigations, training requirements and supervision needs. Additionally, it appears that Foster often serves as a de facto training ground for other police departments as officers often serve within the department before seeking out employment in larger communities.

The Animal Control Officer responds to problems with domestic animals and wildlife within the Town. The Town pays a fee to utilize animal shelters in neighboring towns for stray pets.

Public Services and Facilities Page 58

Since much of the Town is forested, encounters between people and animals such as raccoons, foxes, turkeys, coyotes, deer and bears remain an ever-present issue. Encounters with wildlife bring public health concerns including the transmission of rabies and Lyme disease, potential injury to residents. They may also potentially injure their livestock and pets as well as the wild animals themselves. The Animal Control Officer works to balance the safety of the town’s residents, their pets, and livestock with the interest in preserving and protecting native wildlife.

The Police Department operates 14 motor vehicles. Vehicle upgrades have been managed through lease agreements financed through the Town’s capital budget. The Police Department uses the historic Aylsworth House, located on Howard Hill Road, as its headquarters. This re-use of a historic home creates some unique challenges. The building itself is a 200-year-old wooden structure. While it was remodeled to accommodate the Police Department, it currently meets the bare minimums to function for that purpose. The building needs substantial repairs, has limited space for records storage, and is not handicapped accessible. The building has just one holding cell. In the past, the Town has received grants to fund remodeling of the Aylsworth House. Over the past few years, the windows have been replaced for greater energy efficiency and the furnace was recently replaced.

The town now needs to decide whether to undertake the extensive repairs and remodeling necessary to make the structure better suit its present purpose, or whether to look for other accommodations for the Police Department. Some of the issues that will need to be considered include what type of rooms and space does the police department need? Is it possible to make the department or the building it is housed in more user-friendly and more secure at the same time? Can the Emergency Operations Center continue to be feasibly located within the Police Department or does it need to be relocated elsewhere? Studies of these issues are in progress as the town makes plans to update police facilities.

Current legal requirements and safety factors, including handicapped access, make an updated or new building necessary for the Police Department soon. Upgrades to keep the Police Department functioning efficiently and effectively are also under evaluation as part of the program for new Police facilities.

Fire Protection and Ambulance Corps There are three (3) volunteer fire departments that serve the Town of Foster. All are private non-profit organizations that operate cooperatively but independently. The South Foster Volunteer Fire Company (District 1), located at 7 Mt. Hygeia Road, is the most northerly located and has the newestDRAFT fire station. The Moosup Valley Volunteer Fire Company (District 2), located at 55 Moosup Valley Road, is the most southern of the three. The Foster Center Volunteer Fire Company (District 3), located at 86 Foster Center Road, is the most centrally located and its station is considered part of the municipal government campus. All of the fire companies are manned by dedicated volunteers, many of whom have served for several years. Recruiting new volunteers remains a significant challenge for the fire companies. Other issues they face include: the cost of training new volunteers, ensuring all current volunteers are up to date in their training, ensuring that all volunteers are outfitted with appropriate safety equipment, and the availability of firefighters during weekday hours. Most volunteers have full time jobs with their place of work outside of the town.

Public Services and Facilities Page 59

The Foster Ambulance Corps is located at 22 Mt. Hygeia Road and is also an independent non- profit entity. It operates with three full-time, one part time staff member, and approximately 50 volunteers. About half of volunteers are trained Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). One paid staff person is generally on duty at any given time, and volunteer EMTs are available for all shifts. Additional volunteers provide fund-raising, computer skills, equipment maintenance, and other support services. The Ambulance Corps. works cooperatively with all three volunteer fire companies.

There is also an Engineering Board that consists of representatives from the fire companies and the Foster Ambulance Corps. One purpose of the Engineering Board is to coordinate requests for capital improvement funds for all four entities. The Engineering Board also looks for other opportunities for cooperative efforts between them.

The Town provides each fire company and the Ambulance Corps. with a stipend or donation on an annual basis. The amount of the stipend or donation is set at the annual Financial Town Meeting in May. Requests for replacement and repair of equipment for the Fire Companies and the Ambulance Corps are incorporated into the annual capital budget, but fiscal pressures result in equipment being retained beyond normal service life and thus requiring continual repair to remain in use. The buildings used by the fire companies and the Ambulance Corps. are all privately owned and maintained by the respective entities that occupy them. The Town should consider the possible consolidation of the fire companies to alleviate some of the financial pressure on equipment maintenance and replacements, and better train and manage volunteers.

Emergency Management Agency As with the fire companies and Ambulance Corps, volunteers from within the community serve as staff for the local Emergency Management Agency. The EMA Director receives a stipend and the Assistant Director is a volunteer. Both are appointed by the incoming Town Council every two years.

At one time, there was a volunteer Shelter Team put in place. However, recent discussions have centered on the Shelter Team transitioning to a Certified Emergency Response Team (CERT) which will allow volunteers the opportunity to work only within a shelter and not respond to emergencies. The local EMA can receive certain state and federal funds but has historically received most funds as grants. In light of this, and because the EMA has no paid staff, the financial responsibility of the Town is minimized. DRAFT Like other emergency response personnel in Foster, EMA personnel must be able to respond quickly and efficiently and their equipment must be able to move along with them. At present, the local EMA owns a trailer large enough to contain and transport their emergency response equipment and small enough to be towed by a large pick-up truck or a sports utility vehicle. The trailer was obtained through a grant and can be housed at various locations throughout the community. Its usual location is at the ambulance barn.

There is no building within the Foster Community dedicated to the Emergency Management Agency. At present, the Emergency Operations Center is connected to the Rhode Island

Public Services and Facilities Page 60

Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) via the internet and is in the dispatch area of the police station because the police department is the only emergency service within the community with paid full-time staff monitoring the communication system 24 hours a day. The Emergency Operations Center, known as the WEB-EOC, is intended to function as a central location for coordinating the efforts of all the Town’s emergency response personnel (including paid and volunteer workers) when responding to a town-wide or statewide emergency. Given the structural challenges facing the police station as noted above, however, there are serious concerns about the ability of a group of emergency directors to respond effectively to an emergency from within the dispatch area of the police station. This is another reason why the Town needs to update or relocate the police station. Any new building to house the Police Department should include space to also house the Emergency Operations Center.

Department of Public Works The Department of Public Works (DPW) consists of one full-time director and six full-time employees, one of whom serves as a mechanic. DPW oversees all maintenance and grounds work for Town-owned buildings, maintenance work for all public non-state roads and bridges (which, by extension, includes the stormwater system), and maintenance work for all Town- owned vehicles.

The DPW has adopted a five-year plan to guide the maintenance of roads and bridges within the Town. Because of fiscal constraints, repairs to transportation infrastructure have been forced to be the minimum necessary to maintain public safety. No upgrades to existing gravel roads are anticipated in the near future.

At present, the DPW fleet of vehicles consists of eight trucks, one backhoe, one bucket tractor, two graders (though only one is fully functional), three tractors (though only two are functional), one sweeper, one pickup truck, one military surplus truck, one brush truck (though now used as the mechanic’s response truck, one trailer, and one chipper. While the number of vehicles and type of equipment is appropriate for a department of this size, the age and condition of the vehicles is sub-standard. Many pieces of equipment will require replacement soon.

The DPW facility located at 181 Howard Hill Road includes a garage with four open bays, a paint shop, recycling collection sites, covered salt and sand storage bays, and storage tanks for gas, diesel, and fuel oil bought in bulk. The garage is heated by a unit that utilizes recycled motor oil. DRAFT Storm water runoff from local roads is controlled by the natural environment through swales at the sides of the roads which are expected to be maintained by the DPW. Budget constraints require roadways to be prioritized and this is discussed further in Chapter //.

School Systems At present, public education in Foster is somewhat unique in that its elementary and secondary education is split into separate school districts – Foster School District and Foster-

Public Services and Facilities Page 61

Glocester Regional School District. As of the 2014-15 school year, the elementary student population was 285 and the secondary student population was 352. Student population has reflected the youth population and experienced decline over the past decade while projections indicate the present will continue. This is shown below:

Figure // Student Population Growth, School Years 2004-05 to 2019-20 1000

750

500

250

0 2005-06 2007-08 2009-10 2011-12 2013-14 2015-16 2017-18 2019-20 Source: Town of Foster Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, Financial Year 2015

Foster School District Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School, centrally located at 160 Foster Center Road, is the sole facility of the Foster School District and serves Foster residents eligible for enrollment in kindergarten and first through fifth grades. The staff of the elementary school consists of a part-time superintendent, a full-time principal, approximately two administrative staff, two maintenance staff, one healthcare professional, nine teaching assistants, approximately twenty-three teachers and approximately two specialists.

In January 2011, a heavy snowstorm caused significant damage to the elementary school resulting in closure for the remainder of the school year to allow repairs. Students and staff were temporarily relocated to space available at West Glocester Elementary School and Ponaganset Middle School. The Paine School reopened on schedule. Full day kindergarten was initiated for the 2012-13 school year.

Foster-Glocester Regional School District The Foster-Glocester Regional School District is one of two regional school districts in Rhode Island and serves students from the towns of Foster and Glocester through a middle school and high school. Its administrative and fiscal responsibilities are governed by the Foster- Glocester Regional SchoolDRAFT Committee. Students residing in Foster comprised about 30 percent of the district’s student population.

The most recent Comprehensive Plan had noted concerns of overcrowding at the time of its adoption (180 students beyond capacity between the two schools) and the expectation of a growing student population. An initiative by the Foster-Glocester Regional School Committee of a $46 million bond issue was approved by voters and, along with additional state funds, enabled the construction of a new Ponaganset Middle School and major renovations to Ponaganset High School and the former middle school. The project addressed the concern

Public Services and Facilities Page 62

identified at the time and was accomplished with integrating design elements widely recognized as being better suited to each school’s respective education functions.

For the foreseeable future, school crowding is no longer anticipated to be a problem and both schools meet Department of Education requirements. Looking ahead, expansion of the regional school district in Foster is also not likely for at least the near future. An initiative to transfer control of the Paine School to the regional school district was rejected by voters. The result indicated the town was interested in retaining local control of school. As education evolves in its curriculum, requirements, demographics and funding, the Town may want to reconsider regionalization and investigate cooperative arrangements with other school districts in the area.

Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School enrollment was 277 students in the 2015-16 school year. Enrollment by grade ranged from 29 in first grade to 57 in fifth grade. Enrollment at Ponaganset Middle School and Ponaganset High School in the same year was 1,155 students. Individual enrollment in each grade (sixth to twelfth) ranged from 141 to 186 students. Overall, enrollment in Foster is projected by the Rhode Island Department of Primary and Secondary Education (RIDE) to decline for the next several years. Enrollment has been declining, but not as fast as projected. RIDE’s 2012 projections anticipated a 2016-17 enrollment at Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School of 236, a decrease of 16.6 percent and an enrollment in 2021-22 of 226, a decrease of 20.1 percent as compared with the 2012 enrollment. Projections for the Foster Glocester regional district, in contrast, anticipated increases of 44.8 percent by 2016-17, to 1,785 students, and 31.5 percent to 1,621 by 2021-22. Enrollment has been declining at Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School and increasing at Ponaganset but, in both cases, this is happening much more slowly than the projections anticipate.

According to RIDE, Captain Isaac Paine Elementary School has a maximum capacity of 450 students. Its 2015-16 student enrollment of 277 meant the school was operating at just over 60 percent capacity and experiencing gradually declining enrollment. Ponaganset Middle School has a rated maximum capacity of 1,156 students and a 2015-16 enrollment of 470 (40.7 percent capacity) while the high school has a maximum capacity of 1,100 and a 2015-16 enrollment of 685 (62.3 percent capacity). Therefore, although specific allocations of space to suit program needs will still be expected in the future, both school districts have sufficient capacity within their schools for the foreseeable future. At present, there are no privately owned educational facilities or institutions of higher education located within Foster. Human Services DRAFT The Town of Foster establishes a Department of Human Services (DHS) that is open to the public approximately 20 hours per week to serve LMI residents, the elderly and the handicapped needing assistance with food, clothing, heating, and access to various state and federal programs. The local DHS also assists in times of need, such as when a resident becomes homeless due to a house fire.

The Department of Humans Services is in the basement of the Town Hall. The most recent improvement to the department’s workspace was the installation of its own source of heat

Public Services and Facilities Page 63

and its own handicapped accessible bathroom facilities. Department equipment includes refrigerators and freezers and similar appliances. They are often items donated by residents.

The most prominently identified needs of elderly and handicapped residents are means of transportation to and from their homes to medical appointments, the Scituate Senior Center (which offers meals on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays) and local events such as those by the local social group Young at Heart. No public transit services operate in Foster and private transportation, such as taxis, are limited and are likely too expensive for the population the local DHS focuses on. Thus, elderly and handicapped residents often contact the department to arrange transportation. At present, there is a small group of volunteer drivers who fulfill this need. Foster’s DHS would like to accommodate those in need by soliciting the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority to expand its RIde Program into the community. The Town of Foster should also consider the purchase of its own vehicle and provision of a driver to meet transportation needs.

Solid Waste Disposal Foster provides weekly solid waste pickup for residential units which is hauled to the Central Landfill for disposal; the former municipal dump on Salisbury Road remains closed and in private ownership. The trash collection is provided by a private contractor that is awarded the work by the Town on an annual basis. The contractor also picks up recyclable materials on alternating weeks with residential unit occupants responsible for separating solid waste and recyclables. The destination of these recyclables is the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF). In addition, grant funding has enabled centralized bins, or pods, for electronic equipment, mattresses, scrap metal, and other bulky items. Residents may drop-off motor oil, mattresses, and e-waste (electronic products nearing the end of their useful life) at DPW or directly at the Central Landfill. Construction, demolition and wood waste (such as pallets) and tires must be taken directly to the Central Landfill and household hazardous waste must be taken to the eco-depot by appointment only. The Town benefits fiscally through reimbursement from the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation (RIRRC) for recycled materials that are diverted from the waste stream and through reduction in tipping fees for solid waste disposal.

According to RIRRC data, Foster’s average household disposed of 1.01 tons of solid waste in 2015.3 The town’s overall recycling rate has steadily improved from 21.7% in 2011 to 23.8% in 2014. The material recovery facility (MRF) recycling rate in 2015 was 24.9 percent. The total recycling rate (bin recyclables, leaf and yard waste, clothing, and metals) was 25.4 percent and the overall rate of diversion of waste from the landfill (all wastes) was 26.4 percent. To increase the rate of recycling,DRAFT a “no bin, no barrel” policy was implemented. The reasoning behind this policy to is to get more residents of Foster to recycle. Foster has a goal to meet or exceed a 35 percent recycling rate, and a 50 percent diversion rate for solid waste. Foster also encourages residents to dispose of leaf and yard waste by composting and using the resulting organic compost products for gardening and local landscaping.

3 http://www.rirrc.org/resident/recycling/

Public Services and Facilities Page 64

ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES

• Continually evaluate and implement best practices in educational curricula, teaching, and administration. • Monitor changes in student demographics to ensure appropriate classroom space and educational services at all levels. • Maintain cooperative administrative structure and active participation in Foster/ Glocester Regional School System and Northwest RI Collaborative. • Maintain buildings, athletic fields, repair/ replace playground facilities and equipment, and provide adequate educational equipment and furnishings. • Determine and implement upgrade of shared administrative offices through rehabilitation of wastewater, heating and building facilities at current site (intermediate time frame). • Evaluate and plan for relocation of administrative offices to more suitable and up-to- date facility by 2022. High quality public education. • Safe and adequate facilities for students, staff, and visitors. Acquisition and financing of suitable land for the community for services including but not limited to school administration offices and school recreation. • Provide an excellent, locally responsive public education.

Energy

Foster has several initiatives underway to increase energy generation from renewable sources in the community and to reduce energy consumption. In 2015, the town had an energy audit done for the Town Hall building by Thielsh Engineering. The audit recommended $11,690 of improvements which, with utility incentives, would cost the town $9,980. Those improvements would save 3.7 kW or 10,189 kWh, equivalent to $1,895 annually in energy costs. They would reduce maintenance costs by $500 annually and therefore have a payback period of 4.2 years. Resulting reduction in carbon emissions would be 9,781 lbs, NOx reduction 2.5 lbs. and SO2 reduction 0.3 pounds annually. Plans are underway to implement the audit recommendations.

In 2015, the town also adopted an amendment to the zoning ordinance expressly permitting small (“minor”) solar installations and allowing major solar energy facilities in all Zones by special permit. The town is presently evaluating wind generation potential and may be suitable for wind generation.

Many Foster residents heat their homes with wood. It has been estimated that up to 80% of Foster residents burn woodDRAFT as a primary or supplemental heating source. Burning wood for home heating reduces demand for petrochemicals and reduces carbon emissions that may affect climate. Wood is a carbon neutral fuel as trees take up carbon when growing and then release it again when burned. The extensive forests of Foster are an effective carbon sequestration system and, to the extent that residents sustain forest production beyond their immediate needs, provide an effective way of reducing atmospheric carbon locally and globally.

Public Services and Facilities Page 65

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS CONCERNING COMMUNITY SERVICES & FACILITIES

To promote orderly maintenance, growth and consolidation of existing and proposed public and private services and facilities consistent with community needs, resources and character.

Goals Objectives Policies Actions Adminstratio Administrativ Complete proposed Implement recommendations of the n e facilities improvements to 2015 Energy Audit for Town Hall that serve Town Hall building Replace windows as needed citizens Provide ADA access to all floors effectively Finish second floor space and meet local government needs.

DRAFT

Public Services and Facilities Page 66

Public Safety Safe and Promote public Update and implement a realistic and adequate safety and schedule of repairing and/or replacing Emergency public protection of needed public service vehicles and Services protection environmental equipment such as police, fire and vehicles and resources in rescue apparatus; improve efficiency equipment, potentially and upgrade specialization among the including hazardous private fire and rescue organizations; police, fire, situations. coordinate allocation of capital funds and rescue through the Engineering Board. apparatus. Acquisition Evaluate and plan for relocation of and financing police department to more efficient of suitable and up-to-date facility by 2022. land for the community for services Develop and implement regular including but training schedules for police, fire and not limited to rescue personnel; encourage relocation of coordination of volunteer recruitment the Police and retention among fire and rescue Department. organizations; develop non-financial Well-trained incentives to encourage police officers and equipped and fire and rescue volunteers to police, fire remain in their positions. and rescue personnel, Provide training, information and paid and guidelines for the public concerning volunteer. proper use and maintenance of wood stoves, first responder skills, safe An informed storage of firearms, proper driveway citizenry that access for emergency vehicles, safe actively helps forest management, healthy water and to prevent septic systems, and other safety issues. and mitigate emergency Conduct regular joint training with situations. other municipalities, State and Federal entities related to the Town’s Safe and DRAFTEmergency Operations Plan, adequate Emergency Management Agency, and supplies of Scituate Reservoir Hazardous Material drinking Spill Contingency Plan; and participate water for in other emergency management Town activities. residents and watershed end-users.

Public Services and Facilities Page 67

Public Works Safe and Ensure adequate Update and implement an ongoing five Investments adequate roads bridge and road year plan for road and bridge and bridges for quality while maintenance. residents, protecting businesses and environmental quality Determine the viability of maintaining through traffic. and rural character. existing gravel roads, and investigate pervious alternatives to asphalt surfaces to Clean and Ensure the protection reduce drainage impacts. healthy of water supply and environment environmental quality Promote the installation and maintenance for Town through safe of rain barrels, rain gardens, native residents, management of species propagation, and other water wildlife and wastewater, storm conservation measures. natural water and solid vegetation, waste. Perform annual inspections of all Town and protection above-ground and underground storage of watersheds. Ensure consumers’ tanks (AST’s and UST’s) to verify tank needs for energy are integrity, as required by State law. Improved rates balanced with of recycling environmental Ensure Town Ordinances, Zoning and and waste concerns. Subdivision Regulations meet or exceed diversion. current standards for setbacks for Solid Waste protection of watersheds, wells, septic Management systems, and wetlands; incorporate Sustainable updated standards for water run-off, water and supply and wastewater disposal into environmentall requirements for community development. y sound consumption Actively coordinate with Providence Water and production Supply Board and local communities to of energy. uphold Scituate Reservoir Hazardous Material Spill Contingency Plan. Achieving a Actively seek compensation through the minimum 35% Providence Water Supply Board for the solid waste community’s active work in conserving the recycling rate State’s water quality. and a minimum 50% Promote recycling efforts through public solid waste education and improved availability of diversionDRAFT rate recycling tools, specialty item disposal, consumer information, recycling bins, and composters.

Work with the RIRRC and other appropriate state agencies to identify and quantify ways that Foster residents contribute to source reduction and waste diversion (such as “green” consumer habits, composting, and avoidance of yard waste) and additional means of improving overall diversion rates to 50%. Public Services and Facilities Page 68

Human Assist in Provide needed Support ongoing programs and services Services meeting basic assistance to eligible provided by the Human Services office. needs of Town Town residents to residents for preserve health, Explore sharing resources with neighboring food, clothing, welfare and quality of towns. shelter, and life. transportation. Secure funding for purchase/ lease/ share of vehicle and funding for driver. Provide essential transportation for seniors and Secure funding to enable providing energy other eligible assistance to eligible residents. residents.

Provide energy assistance to eligible residents.

DRAFT

Public Services and Facilities Page 69

NATURAL HAZARDS

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ EXISTING CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENTS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION Natural hazards have the potential to impact the natural resources, built environment, property, and people of Foster. The goal of this section is to create a safer community by identifying natural hazards and encouraging planning to reduce or eliminate the threats they pose to life and property.

RELATIONSHIP TO THE HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN The purpose of a local hazard mitigation plan is to “identify policies and actions that can be implemented over the long term to reduce risk and future losses.” While this is also one of the purposes of including natural hazards within a comprehensive plan, the local comprehensive plan is used to guide development and infrastructure decisions at the municipal level. Therefore, discussions of natural hazards and climate change impacts within a comprehensive plan must take a more holistic view and should align land use, transportation, infrastructure and other goals and policies with natural hazards considerations.

The comprehensive plan should consider different aspects of natural hazards and climate change than what is typically found in a local hazard mitigation plan. As you’ll see throughout this chapter, there are some areas not discussed and there are some areas where additional discussion is warranted. However, comprehensive plans and hazard mitigation plans can benefit each other. The information contained within the hazard mitigation plan can serve as the basis for addressing natural hazards in the comprehensive plan while the comprehensive plan can reinforce the strategies detailed within the hazard mitigation plan.

EXISTING CONDITIONS The Town of Foster lies in Providence County, Rhode Island, within the northeastern climate region. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data from 1981-2010 shows that Providence County averages 52.56 inches of precipitation per year, including an average annual snowfall of 46.65 inches. NOAA records also indicate that the average annual temperature for Providence County is 49.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Foster has no coastline, but several streams, ponds, wetlands and dams exist within the town.

70

FLOODING Foster contains approximately [#] acres of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood zone, equivalent to [%] of the entire area of Foster. This flood zone is generally associated with the major rivers within the town and their tributaries. Parts of the floodplain that are developed are at particular risk from flooding.

The town’s oldest developments were located close to rivers for access to water power and at low elevation, where they are vulnerable to flooding. Some residences were also developed prior to the adoption of restrictions on construction in floodplains and are also vulnerable.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM)’s Dam Safety Program has inventoried dams which are listed in Table // lists these dams and shown on Map XX. Two of these, Hemlock Brook #349 and the Westconaug Brook Dam #163 are classified as high hazard dams. The Moosup River Dam #546 is identified as a Significant Hazard Dam. All other dams listed areLow Hazard dams.

The Town cooperates with RIDEM and FEMA to prepare for and respond to flooding events. To mitigate adverse impacts of flooding, the Town restricts development within floodplains. Older developments, particularly those that relied on water power, were in floodplain areas and are therefore especially vulnerable to flood impacts. The Town’s policy is that all development and redevelopment projects in floodplains must be designed to reduce the potential for flooding, reduce the frequency of damage resulting from flooding events, and reduce the cost of flood damage to the maximum practical extent.

Table // Dams and Hazard Classifications RIVER / STREAM DAM NAME STATE ID HAZARD # CLASSIFICATION Dolly Cole Brook Brush Meadow Pond 355 Low Dolly (Cole) Brook Lily Pond 356 Low Dolly Cole Brook Cranston Fish & Game A. Pond 358 Low Dolly Cole Brook – T Hopkins Axe Factory Pond 357 Low Hemlock Brook Spear Pond 349 High Hemlock Brook Gorham Farm Pond 507 Low Hemlock Brook SalisburyDRAFT Road Pond 641 Low Moosup River Clark Pond 642 Low Moosup River – T Manton Sportsmen’s Club 453 Low Pond Moosup River – T Harrington Farm Pond 489 Low Moosup River – T Porter Pond 564 Low Moosup River – T North Road Pond 640 Low

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 71

Moosup River – T Moosup Valley Pond 690 Low Moosup River – T Johnson Road Pond 691 Low Moosup River – T Foster Country Club 692 Low Moosup River – T Gorham, N. Farm Pond 526 Significant Paine Brook Hutchinson Pond 348 Low Paine Brook – T Spencer Farm Pond #1 502 Low Ponagansett River Hopkins Mill Pond 180 Low Ponagansett River – T Spencer Farm Pond #2 518 Low Quanduck Brook –T Knowles Farm Pond 459 Low Quanduck Brook – T Cucumber Hill Road 639 Low Shippee Brook Young’s Pond 347 Low Tu r k e y M e a d ow B r ook Hebert Farm Pond 522 Low West Meadow Brook – Bassett Farm Pond 478 Low T Westconnaug Brook Westconnaug Reservoir 163 High Wilbur Hollow Brook – Hawkins Farm Pond 516 Low T Source: RI DEM 2013 Annual Dam Inventory Listing Note: ‘T’ designates a tributary

There are three classifications of dams used by RIDEM to identify their risk to communities. Dams which present no probable loss of human life and low economic losses are recognized as Low Hazard. Significant Hazard dams are those which do not present a probable loss of human life if they fail or mis-operate, like low hazard dams, but they may cause major economic losses, disruptions of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns detrimental to the public’s health, safety or welfare. Examples of major economic loss include the washing out of a state or federal highway or two or more municipal roads, a loss of vehicular access to residences, or damage to a several structures. Dams posing the most significant threat upon failure or mis-operation – probable loss of human life – are classified as High Hazard. Hurricanes & TornadoesDRAFT Although Foster is not a coastal community, hurricanes still pose hazards due to high winds and heavy rainfall. High winds can be particularly damaging to trees, utility lines, and structures. Wind-borne debris presents a hazard to health and safety as well as to property. Heavy rainfall associated with hurricanes can cause flood hazards like those described above. Though relatively rare, tornadoes can occur in the area and cause damage due to high winds and wind-borne debris.

Hurricanes affect Foster almost every year and often cause heavy rainfall, localized flooding and high winds which bring down trees, block roadways and damage power lines. In 2012,

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 72

Superstorm Sandy left almost half of the population without electricity. It was several days before power could be fully restored. One year prior, Hurricane Irene brought heavy rain and wind gusting up to 71 miles per hour. It caused widespread flooding and numerous power outages. In 2010, Hurricane Earl brought even more rain, although not as much wind. Most storms

Most of the electrical and communications transmission facilities in Foster are above ground on poles, where they are particularly vulnerable to storm damage. To minimize damages, Foster encourages citizens to make storm preparations when hurricane conditions threaten. Foster cooperates with state officials and with neighboring towns to warn citizens of impending storms, prepare for hurricanes, and respond to emergencies both during and after hurricanes.

WINTER STORMS Winter storms can result in heavy ice and snow accumulation, the weight of which can damage buildings, utility lines, and trees. In extreme cases, this accumulation can even cause buildings to collapse. Often, these storms are accompanied by high winds, which can create hazards much like those of hurricanes. Winter storms also pose a hazard because they often restrict or prevent travel along roadways. When snow and ice melts, flooding can be a problem. In particular, flooding can be made worse by ice jams, which block natural drainage and occur most often at constrictions along rivers.

The Blizzard of 1978 is perhaps the most memorable example of winter storm damage in Foster, but there have been more recent incidents as well. In 1993, a massive early spring storm4 sometimes referred to as the storm of the century brought 13 inches of snow to Foster most of the eastern seaboard to a standstill. The town typically experiences several significant winter storms each year.

The Town prepares for winter storms by stockpiling sand and salt and securing personnel and equipment for snow removal. Road and parking surfaces are treated before winter storms and all major roads are kept clear during winter storms for safety and emergency response.

DROUGHT Drought occurs when there is an extended period of consistently below-average rainfall. This can have negative effects on natural resources, such as vegetation, waterbodies, and wetlands. It can also negatively impact public and private drinking water supplies. Agricultural businesses, golf courses, private lawns, and town sports fields can be damaged by prolonged drought. DRAFT

Drought has threatened Foster as recently as 2016, when below normal rainfall for three successive months caused stream flows to drop near record lows. In April 2012 and in March 20115, the lack of winter precipitation threatened water supplies and severe drought

5 http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/sotc/drought/2011/3

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 73

appeared imminent. Fortunately, early summer rains alleviated both these drought conditions within the following few months, but recurrence of drought is inevitable.

To mitigate impacts of drought, the Town takes an active role in the drought management process and coordinates municipal government efforts with the Providence Water Supply Board during stages of drought preparation, water conservation and water emergencies. The Town has local ordinances to provide guidance and regulations to manage drought at the community level. Municipal officials enforce local regulations/restrictions and state emergency orders including watering restrictions as needed. The Town also coordinates with the water providers, state officials and other municipalities to ensure that the drought and emergency preparedness and are incorporated into the Community Comprehensive Plan.

EXTREME TEMPERATURES Extreme heat occurs when high atmospheric pressure moves into an area which inhibits winds and prevents cloud formation. Periods of extreme heat typically last two or more days and can have significant effects on human health. Heat stroke and hyperthermia caused by extreme high temperatures can result in death, particularly among the elderly and those infirmed. Heat waves can also be accompanied by or exacerbate droughts. Heat waves can also tax power systems as people run air conditioners which can overload power circuits causing brown outs and/or power failure.

A heat wave, meaning a period when daily maximum temperatures reach or exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) for three days in a row, affected the town in July 2010. Surface temperatures approaching 100°F were experienced in Foster while many regional cities felt record-breaking temperatures.6 The State issued health advisories encouraging residents, especially those with greater health risk, to reduce activity and urging them to find air conditioned spaces wherever possible.

Extreme cold, often associated with winter storms, also presents a hazard to human health. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur if precautions are not taken to stay warm during periods of extreme cold. Outdoor workers and lower-income citizens without access to sufficient clothing or heating fuel are particularly at risk. Damage can also occur to roadways, building foundations and utility infrastructure due to frost heaving and frozen pipes.

The Town experiences a few weeks of extreme cold in most winters and a few weeks of extreme heat in most summers and works each year to make information, heating assistance and related services available to the elderly and to persons in need during very hot and very cold weather. The TownDRAFT also maintains public buildings, such as the public libraries, that provide climate-controlled places for citizens during the day.

EARTHQUAKES Earthquakes are relatively rare and of minor severity in Rhode Island, but have been known to occur. Typically they cause little to no damage, but can frighten citizens, rattle windows, and shift objects and furnishings. The most recent earthquake that could be felt in Foster was a

6 http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/07/nyregion/07heat.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 74

magnitude 4.5 quake that occurred near Hollis Center, Maine on October 16, 2012. Effects of the quake were felt throughout New England.

CLIMATE CHANGE Research shows that climate change will have far-reaching impacts for Rhode Island. Some changes Foster should anticipate include:

• Hotter, drier summers – Increases in temperature and more frequent days above 100 degrees Fahrenheit can increase the risks of health problems such as heat stroke. • Warmer, more wet winters – While snowfall may decrease, wetter winter storms can cause flooding and potentially damage structures, infrastructure, and dams. • Higher intensity storms – Increased rainfall per storm can cause problems with flooding; intense electrical storms can damage utility lines and trees, cause fires, and pose a health risk; increased wind can damage trees, utility lines, and buildings and increase the damage done by wind-borne debris. • More frequent droughts – As mentioned above, droughts have the potential to negatively impact natural resources, drinking water supplies, and land uses dependent upon healthy vegetation.

RISK PRIOITIZATION The following table lists the hazards described above and assigns a priority risk to each. Priority risks are subjective and local and these classifications are taken from the Foster Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Table // Vulnerability to Flood-related Hazards 7 HAZARD FREQUENCY MAGNITUDE SPEED / SEASONAL POSSIBLE RISK ONSET EFFECTS PRIORITY

7 The following are definitions of terms used in Table // as well as in tables // - //. Frequency – Highly likely means near 100 percent probability within the next year; likely means between 10 percent and 100 percent probability within the nextDRAFT year or at least one chance in the next 10 years; possible means between one percent and 10 percent probability within the next year or at least one chance in the next 100 years; unlikely means less than one percent probability in next 100 years Magnitude – Catastrophic means more than 50 percent of the community will be affected; critical means 25 percent to 50 percent of the community will be affected; limited means 10 percent to 25 percent of the community will be affected; negligible means less than 10 percent of the community will be affected. Speed/Onset – The approximate amount of time residents could receive notice to prepare for a hazardous event; also known as a warning time Seasonal Pattern – The time of year in which the event is most likely to occur Possible Effects – The most likely impacts resulting from the occurrence of a hazardous event Risk Priority – A determination of “total” risk to the community based on a combination of the factors noted above

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 75

Heavy Highly Likely Critical 12 – 24 Winter, Flooding, Medium Rains / HRS Spring, Property Flash Summer, Damage, Floods Fall Roads Closed, Dams Breached, Environmental Damage, Emergency Services Compromised, Power Outages Dam Possible Critical 24 HRS + Winter, Flooding, Medium Breaches Spring, Property Summer, Damage, Fall Emergency Services Compromised, Roads Closed, Environmental Damage, Power Outages Source:

Table // Vulnerability to Heat-related Hazards HAZARD FREQUENCY MAGNITUDE SPEED / SEASONAL POSSIBLE RISK 1 ONSET EFFECTS PRIORITY Drought Likely Critical Weeks Summer, Property Damage, Medium to Fall Emergency months Services Compromised, Roads Closed, DRAFTThreatens Residential and Commercial Occupancy, Environmental Damage, Power Outages

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 76

Wildfire Possible Critical Minimal Summer, Property Damage, Medium Fall Possible Loss of Life, Environmental Damage, Power Outages, Compromised Emergency Services Source:

Table // Vulnerability to Wind-related Hazards HAZARD FREQUENC MAGNITUDE SPEED / SEASONAL POSSIBLE RISK Y ONSET EFFECTS PRIORITY Hurricanes Likely Critical 24 HRS June to Flooding, Medium + November; Downed most likely Trees, Power in August Outages, and Property September Damage, Loss of Life, Environmenta l Damage Microburst / Likely Critical Minimal June to Flooding, Medium Tornadoes November; Downed most likely Trees, Power in August Outages, and Property September Damage, Loss of Life Thunderstorm Highly Critical 0 – 24 Spring Flooding, Medium s Likely HRS through Downed fall Trees, Power Outages, Property DRAFTDamage, Emergency Services Compromised Hail Likely Critical Minimal Spring Property Medium through Damage, fall Power Outages

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 77

Lightning Likely Critical Minimal Spring Property Medium through Damage, Fire, fall Loss of Life, Downed Trees, Power Outages Source:

Table // Vulnerability to Winter-related Hazards HAZARD FREQUENCY MAGNITUDE SPEED / SEASONAL POSSIBLE RISK ONSET EFFECTS PRIORITY Ice Storms Likely Limited Minimal Winter Property Medium Damage, Power Outages, Travel Hazards, Emergency Servicers Compromised, Downed Trees and Power Lines Blizzards Likely Catastrophic 2 – 24 Winter Property Medium HRS Damage, Power Outages, Emergency Services Compromised Extreme Likely Catastrophic 24 HRS Winter Property Medium Cold Damage, Adverse Impact on Residences, DRAFTPower Outages, Frozen Pipes Nor’easter Likely Catastrophic 2 – 24 Winter, Property Medium HRS Spring, Damage, Summer, Flooding, Fall Downed Trees, Power Outages

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 78

Source:

Table // Vulnerability to Other Hazards HAZARD FREQUENC MAGNITUDE SPEED / SEASONAL POSSIBLE RISK Y ONSET EFFECTS PRIORITY Earthquakes Unlikely Catastrophic Minimal Winter, Property Low Spring, Damage, Loss Summer, of Life, Power Fall Outages, Adverse Impacts on Transportation and Communication s

Source:

Table // Vulnerability of Critical Municipal Facilities 8 NAME LOCATION PURPOSE NATURAL HAZARD RISK VULNERABILIT Y Town Hall 181 Howard Municipal Heavy Rains/Flash Historic Medium Hill Road Government Floods, Wildfire, and Hurricanes, Potentia Southeast Microburst/ l Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter Town House 181 Howard Municipal Heavy Rains/Flash Historic High Hill Road Government, Floods, Wildfire, and Historical Hurricanes, Potentia Southeast Microburst/ l Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, DRAFTLightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter

8 Purpose – The general purpose of the facility Natural Hazard – An event that has previously impacted or may impact a facility Risk – What precedence exists of a hazard impacting a facility; this may be either a historical event which can reoccur and impact a facility in the future or can be reliably projected to impact a facility if it occurs in the future

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 79

Police 181 Howard Emergency Heavy Rains/Flash Historic High Station Hill Road Services, Floods, Wildfire, and Public Hurricanes, Potentia Southeast Services Microburst/ l Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter Department 86 Foster Municipal Heavy Rains / Flash Potentia Medium of Public Center Road Government, Floods, Wildfire, l Works Public Hurricanes, Southeast Services Microburst/ Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter

Foster 86 Foster Emergency Heavy Rains / Flash Potentia Medium Center Fire Center Road Services Floods, Wildfire, l Station Hurricanes, Southeast Microburst/ Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter South Foster Mt. Hygeia Emergency Heavy Rains / Flash Potentia Medium Fire Station Road Services Floods, Wildfire, l Hurricanes, Northwest Microburst/ Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice DRAFTStorms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 80

Foster Mt. Hygeia Emergency Heavy Rains / Flash Potentia Medium Ambulance Road Services Floods, Wildfire, l Corps Hurricanes, Northwest Microburst/ Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter Moosup Moosup Emergency Heavy Rains / Flash Potentia Medium Valley Fire Valley Road Services Floods, Wildfire, l Department Hurricanes, Southwest Microburst/ Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter Captain Isaac Foster Public Heavy Rains / Flash Historic Medium Paine Center Road Education, Floods, Wildfire, and Elementary Community Hurricanes, Potentia School Northeast Gathering Microburst/ l Quadrant Place Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, Nor-Easter Woody Howard Hill Recreational, Heavy Rains / Flash Historic Medium Lowden Road Community Floods, Wildfire, and Recreational Gathering Hurricanes, Potentia Center Southeast Place Microburst/ l Quadrant Tornadoes, Thunderstorms, Hail, Lightening, Ice Storms, Blizzards, DRAFTNor-Easter

NATURAL HAZARD AREAS MAP

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 81

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

Goals Objectives Policies Actions

DRAFT

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 82

To identify the types of natural hazards which have and can occur in the Foster community including but not Educate Foster limited to hurricanes, fires residents on how and winter storms etc. to prepare for natural hazards as To update and revise the it relates to their Foster Local Multi-Hazard private Mitigation Plan (Natural residences, and Hazard Plan), Emergency their own health Operations Plan, the and safety. Continuity of Operations Planning, and the Foster MED Not to allow Educate Foster Plan, with the assistance of development within business owners the Rhode Island Emergency the National Flood on how to prepare Management Services, and Plain Zones (as To m inim ize t he for natural the Rhode Island Department shown on the NFIP social and hazards as it of Health. Maps issued March, economic loss or relates to their 2009). hardships businesses, and To continue the education of incurred by their own health Incident Command Services Work in conjunction Foster residents and safety. for all hired personnel and with local, state and and business volunteers. national owners resulting Increase local, organizations to from natural state and national To hold at least quarterly increase both hazardous responses to training programs for the responses to natural events. natural hazards Foster Shelter Team, to keep hazards, and within the Foster them up to date on training of hired community. statewide requirements. personnel and volunteers. Increase training To continue to update and of hired personnel revise the Foster five (5) and volunteers year road plan. regarding proper response criteria To continue to update and to natural revise the Foster Storm DRAFTWater (Wastewater) Plan in hazards. (Example: accordance with state Training regarding regulations. NIMSCAST) To develop, update, revise or obtain emergency preparedness flyers (information) and pass them out to Foster residents.

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 83

DRAFT

Natural Hazards and Resiliency Page 84

TRANSPORTATION NETWORK

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ EXISTING CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENTS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION The Town of Foster recognizes that the movement of people throughout a community is a subject inextricably linked to community character. The transportation network of the town affects the ease of movement through Foster for residents, visitors, workers and emergency responders. An important function of the municipality is the provision of an adequate and safe transportation network. Locally, this consists of state and local roadways. Many are characteristic of the natural environment in which they exist, meaning they are unimproved, unpaved, narrow and meandering. Planning for transportation in this Plan has considered the mobility needs of all community members – not only those who are operating automobiles – based on studies of the routes and modes of travel in Foster.

Important considerations for the town include scenic roads, emergency access and long-term road maintenance. This chapter compiles information from the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT), Town officials, the Foster Police Department and site visits. State and municipal policies were determined from discussions with various officials. Including goals, policies and implementation actions for transportation within this Plan provides Fosters’ residents a long-range view of their transportation needs and aligns the town’s transportation goals with goals and policies for other aspects of the community, such as land use, economic development, and housing.

Relationship to Other Chapters This Chapter describes the network of streets that is the town’s transportation network. Due to an absence of public transportation options within the town - no rail lines or Rhode Island Pubic Transit Authority (RIPTA) bus routes – as well as the prevalence of residential land uses and adopted zoning requirements, most residents are dependent on automobiles. Residents without access to motor vehiclesDRAFT likely experience many limitations.

In Natural Resources, Conservation, and Recreation (Chapter 1), this Plan explores where access to natural resources for bikers, walkers, joggers, canoers and other active transportation options is desired. This chapter will explore design guidelines and siting requirements for buildings that preserve scenic roadways.

As a water rich community, Foster is particularly susceptible to storm water and ground water flooding. In this Chapter road maintenance and improvements are a focus. Roads that are

Transportation Network Page 85

designated for emergency evacuation or that will be significantly impacted by a natural hazard, such as flooding, are discussed in Natural Hazards and Resiliency (Chapter 6).

EXISTING CONDITIONS The transportation network in Foster grew out of Providence merchants’ commercial interests and the most common modes of travel at the time – by foot, horse or drawn carriage. In the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, Providence investors began a series of investments in the construction of turnpikes. These early highways, constructed as private toll roads, were constructed to connect Providence to other cities to facilitate trade. In Foster, most of these turnpikes provide connections between Rhode Island and Connecticut. Hartford Pike, Danielson Pike, East Killingly Road, South Killingly Road, and Plainfield Pike are all named for their original destinations. Central Pike, an exception to this rule, was named for its location in relation to the other highways across the town.

Local roads were built to connect these turnpikes as well as to provide access to the developing farms and villages of the community. These roads were most often named for a nearby geological feature (Mount Hygeia Road, Cucumber Hill Road), cultural landmark (Foster Center Road, Shippee Schoolhouse Road), or prominent family (Winsor Road, Paris Olney Hopkins Road).

Road Network Foster`s transportation network today still consists of major highways running east-west through the Town connected by local north/south roads. The major highways continue to provide access through the town to destinations such as Providence and the State of Connecticut while the local roads provide access to the farms, villages and neighborhoods that form the fabric of the community.

State Roads Foster is located approximately 12 miles from Interstate 295 in Rhode Island, and about 4 miles from Interstate 395 in Connecticut. Foster contains five numbered state routes. East- west routes are: • Route 6 (Danielson Pike): a major connector between Interstate 295 in Rhode Island and Interstate 395 in Connecticut that includes the primary area of commercial development in the community • Route 101 (Hartford Pike): branches off Route 6 in Scituate and joins Route 44, a major connector between Providence and Connecticut • Route 14 (Plainfield DRAFTPike): provides Foster residents with the most direct route to urban centers in Johnston, Cranston and Providence • Route 102 (Victory Highway): provides a north/south route which passes through Scituate to the east and through the rural areas of Coventry and West Greenwich to the South, connecting to Route I-95 in West Greenwich • Route 94 (Foster Center Road/ Mount Hygeia Road): connects Route 102 and Route 6.

Other state roads are Central Pike (east of Foster Center Road Route 94), Cucumber Hill Road and Moosup Valley Road.

Transportation Network Page 86

Figure // (Placeholder) Foster Road Network

Source:

Town Roads The major municipal roadways are Howard Hill Road, Walker Road, Johnson Road, South Killingly Road, Kennedy Road, and East Killingly Road. These roads are relatively narrow and winding, which helps to DRAFTkeep automobile drivers travelling at safe speeds and helps protect the character of the community. Many minor local roads are unpaved. Unpaved roads require frequent repairs and maintenance of erosion control measures, but are an important part of the rural character. Tom Wood Road and portions of Tray Hollow Road, George Washington Highway, Luther Road, Howard Hill Road, Biscuit Hill Road, Weatherbee Road, Goldmine Road, Central Pike, and Rickard Road are all unimproved local public roadways.

Transportation Network Page 87

Commuting Patterns According the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (RIDLT)’s Labor Market Information Unit, only about ten percent of Foster’s residents worked in the town as of 2013. The remaining 90 percent worked outside of town.

Table // Commuting Patterns in Foster, 2013

Where Foster’s Residents Work Where Workers in Foster Reside Location of Residents Percent Location of Workers Percent Workplace Workplace Rhode Island 1,830 86.9% Rhode Island 464 Providence 357 16.9% Foster 220 43.4% Foster 220 10.4% Scituate 45 8.9% Cranston 157 7.5% Pawtucket 36 7.1% Smithfield 130 6.2% Woonsocket 26 5.1% Johnston 125 5.9% Burrillville 24 4.7% Warwick 116 5.5% Warwick 23 4.5% Glocester 116 5.5% West Greenwich 15 3.0% Scituate 75 3.6% Lincoln 14 2.8% Woonsocket 58 2.8% Johnston 12 2.4% Pawtucket 55 2.6% Coventry 10 2.0% West Warwick 53 2.5% Smithfield 9 1.8% Lincoln 48 2.3% Warren 8 1.6% South Kingstown 48 2.3% North Smithfield 8 1.6% East Providence 41 1.9% Glocester 7 1.4% North Smithfield 40 1.9% Providence 7 1.4% North Kingstown 39DRAFT1.9% Others 0 - North Providence 31 1.5% Connecticut 34 6.7% Coventry 27 1.3% Sterling 19 3.7% Others 94 Killingly 15 3.0% Connecticut 135 6.4% Others 0 - Killingly 44 2.1% Massachusetts 9 1.8% Others 91 4.3% Somerset 9 1.8%

Transportation Network Page 88

Massachusetts 142 6.7% Others 0 - Walpole 28 1.3% Others 114 5.4% Tot al 2,107 Tot al 507 Source: RIDLT Labor Market Information Unit, 2013

Most of those who commute out of Foster are employed in the Providence metropolitan area (employers located in Providence itself provide the largest single share of jobs for Foster residents at 16.9 percent) while smaller numbers are distributed throughout surrounding communities. Most (86.9%) work in Rhode Island while about 6.7% worked in Massachusetts and 6.4% in Connecticut. There were also about 507 people who worked in Foster in 2013. Of those, 220 or 43.4 percent, also lived in Foster. The remaining 56.6 percent commuted into Foster from surrounding communities. The highest percentage (8.9 percent) came from adjacent Scituate and urban centers such as Pawtucket (7.1 percent) and Woonsocket (5.1 percent) with lower percentages from other surrounding communities. The American Community Survey estimated most of the employed population in Foster, including those whose workplace was in the town, travelled to work as the sole occupant in a private motor vehicle (89 percent) during the five-year period 2010 to 2014. Only 0.3 percent walked from their home to their job and no workers rode a bicycle. While this indicates driving alone is the dominant means of commuting, this estimate is a slight decline from the 92.5 percent of workers estimated to have been driving alone during the previous five-year period 2006 to 2010.

Storm Water Management As a rural community, Foster does not have any significant municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4). Apart from state highways, where stormwater facilities are maintained by the state, drainage facilities associated with Foster’s roads tend to consist only of cross culverts and occasional small one or two catch basin systems that do not pose a threat to water quality.

Bridges Foster contains 16 major bridges, seven of which are maintained by the state. Four bridges – Central Pike, Dolly Cole, Moosup Valley and Spears – are posted with weight limits and three – Hemlock, Hopkins Mill, and Hemlock Road – are closed.9 Recently, the bridges on Mill Road and Plain Woods Road were repaired after damage from flooding which occurred in spring 2010. Much of the repairsDRAFT was funded through FEMA grants. The bridge on Winsor Road was repaired in 2014 using municipal funds. The Town of Foster should consider the option of repair and maintenance of town bridges to be done by the Department of Public Works.

Traffic Controls Foster’s first and only traffic signal was installed in 2010 and is located at the intersection of Route 6 and Route 94. There are also flashing caution lights at the intersections of Route 94

9 http://www.dot.ri.gov/travel/postedbridges_list.php

Transportation Network Page 89

and Route 101, Route 101 and Boss Road, and Route 6 and Cucumber Hill Road. Apart from these locations, the only traffic controls in Foster are stop signs at intersections and warning signs on narrow or sharply curving roads. Generally, RIDOT has worked with the Town to minimize hazards once identified. Examples of this include installing stop signs and other warning signs, making road improvements to Route 6, limiting passing areas, and improving sight distances near the state line.

Traffic Volumes Traffic data available for Foster are very limited. The most recent automobile counts were conducted by RIDOT at only one roadway segment in Foster; the portion of Route 101 at the town line with neighboring Glocester was traversed by an annual two-day average of 2,900 motor vehicles. The last major count of state roads in Foster was performed in 2001. The counts of those roadways included are summarized in the table below.

Table // Local Traffic Volumes, 2001 Roadway Vehicles per day Route 6 (east of Route 94) 7,400 Route 6 (west of Route 94) 10,000 Route 101 (east of Route 94) 4,428 Route 101 (west of Route 94) 3,500 Route 94 (north of Route 6) 1,500 Route 94 (south of Route 6) 1,900 Routes 14 and 102 2,100 Source: RIDOT

Route 6 is the most heavily traveled road, reflecting its role as a major east-west connector. Routes 101, 94 and 14 are also heavily traveled, reflecting both regional and cross town traffic. Traffic on all major roads has increased considerably over the past few years. The traffic counts also reflect patterns of residents traveling to their out of Town jobs. The casinos in Connecticut have had a major impact on the traffic volume on Route 6.

Accidents Generally the relative numberDRAFT of accidents increases with the amount of travel on the roads and the amount of traffic crossing the roads. The highest number of accidents occurs along Route 6, especially at The intersections with Route 94, Boswell Trail and Cucumber Hill road. Accidents also occur at several intersections along Routes 94 and 101.

Public Transportation Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority does not provide transit service to the Foster area. Foster residents provide their own transportation. The nearest bus connection is the 10X route available in Scituate at the Park and Ride off Chopmist Hill Road. The 10X bus

Transportation Network Page 90

provides express service to Kennedy Plaza in downtown Providence and connects to other modes there. RIPTA may one day provide service to Foster. Demand for a return of some form of transit service to Foster is likely to increase in the future due to an aging population with increasingly limited mobility. However, for the foreseeable future, low population density, limited demand, and budget limitations will continue to make public transit service impractical in Foster.

ASSESSMENT OF FOSTER’S TRANSPORTATION NETWORK

Statewide Issues Give priority to preserving and managing the transportation system. Follow regularly scheduled programs of pavement and bridge management to prevent highway structures from premature deterioration, resulting in safety hazards and the need for more frequent and costly full rehabilitation or replacement.

Transportation 2035, Policy H.2.a Strive for excellence in design of transportation projects to enhance safety, security, mobility, environmental stewardship, aesthetic quality, and community livability.

Transportation 2035, Goal D, page 5-10 Maintain and expand an integrated statewide network of on-road and off- road bicycle routes to provide a safe means of travel for commuting, recreation, and tourism in order to improve public health, and reduce auto congestion and dependency. Transportation 2035, Goal B, page5-8

Transportation Issues Affecting Foster *** In this section Foster will identify which categories of issues currently impact its (subject area) or may are forecasted to (actions on subject area) in the next twenty (20) years.

Based on the community’s particular inventory determine most relevant assessments, and determine needs and trends.

Road conditions, long-termDRAFT maintenance and storm water controls *** Table T-3 Roadway Conditions

ROAD AND BRIDGE PLAN The Foster Department of Public Works has established a five-year plan for maintaining and upgrading Fosters roads and bridges. The Planning Board and the DPW Director are responsible for reviewing and updating the Plan annually. A new funding policy is being developed in a

Transportation Network Page 91

joint effort between the Foster Planning Board and the Foster Department of Public Works to repair Fosters Roads and Bridges.

Unopened Roads The town contains several mapped (public) roads that are not open for travel. The town cannot afford the high cost of improving and opening them without prior planning. There are no plans for improvement of these roads. The Town of Foster should evaluate and consider if it is practical to abandon some or all of these Roads.

Rural Character of the Roads and Road Improvements An important part of Foster's rural character has been its road network. The town's small dispersed Population has not required many major roads. As a result, many of Foster's roads remain unpaved and narrow. However, several factors may bring about a change in the character of the town's circulation network: Unpaved roads require frequent maintenance, and a growing population will result in additional wear on the roads. Development in the town is closely linked to the road network. Commercial and residential development is most likely to occur on easily traveled roads, and with development, the roads may need to be improved to handle additional traffic. The Town must balance the needs of an expanding population with the preservation of the town's rural character. The future improvements should reflect the land use plan. The scenic nature of the roads must be preserved as well.

Input into State Projects The Town is extremely concerned that state projects be responsive to the community's goals to preserve its rural character and other needs. Specifically, the community (Town officials and residents) should be included in developing and implementing the following:

• Route 101 upgrade • Route 102 upgrade respecting the unique character of historic Clayville • State maintenance or upgrade of roads and bridges in Foster; any maintenance or upgrading should preserve the rural character of the roads to the extent possible • State decisions to turn State maintained roads back to the town for maintenance • Placement of traffic lights and other controls on state roads, especially at high hazard areas

Alternative Modes of Transportation Many alternative modes of transportation, such as walking and biking, were commonly relied on before the introduction of the automobile and are thus in keeping with the town’s rural character. The town has also recognized the need to encourage the use of public transportation to jobs inDRAFT Providence (as noted previously, the largest number of residents worked in the state’s capital). Bicycle routes and walking paths are also under consideration as part of the scenic roads project.

There have been some trail system improvements since the 2003 update, including work by the Foster Land Trust at the Spencer property and Tom Wood road. There were also improvements to the North-South Trail system. This trail system would provide access to scenic and historic resources as well as infrastructure for an alternative mode of transportation. The trail system could incorporate important nearby destinations such as the

Transportation Network Page 92

villages of Scituate, Foster Center, Hopkins Mills, Clayville and Moosup Valley and recreational facilities. The North-South trail system is an example and could be used as a spine from which lateral routes through town could be designated. Establishment of these routes would also be an asset for promoting development of recreation and tourism-based small business opportunities.

OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK

Regional Opportunities The Town must plan for the future of its paved and unpaved roads to retain their rural character while ensuring that all roads are safe. Studies are needed to identify local trouble spots, particularly areas where drainage is a problem and streets flood in major storms. Once trouble spots have been identified, the town needs to develop a road and bridge plan to establish priorities, identify funding sources, and plan the improvements necessary to correct existing deficiencies.

Because adequate and safe circulation means more than vehicular use of roads, the Town will explore alternative and recreational circulation systems such as hiking, biking and bridle trails, canoeing and cross country skiing trails. Public transportation will be encouraged where it is appropriate.

The following are specific polices for action:

Implement and fund the Road and Bridge Improvement Plan for road upgrading and maintenance. This plan provides for the paving of certain important connector roads, allowing others to remain as unpaved rural and scenic roads. Ensure that scenic roads which form public linkage for the North-South trail system are upgraded in a sensitive fashion following design standards which retain their scenic integrity and allow an appropriate trail function as well as vehicular use.

Reevaluate and update the Road and Bridge Improvement Plan and projections for funding every year along with a twenty-year funding outlook. Complete scenic RoadsDRAFT project including bicycling and walking paths. Designate scenic roads itemized in the Historic/Scenic inventory

Nominate the most important of these roads for the State Scenic Road designation using the RIDOT criteria for such nominations, including scenic roads that are scheduled for state funded improvement projects.

Transportation Network Page 93

Policy - Scenic roads, both those nominated for state designation and those chosen for local listing, should be protected through improvement standards implemented at the local level and through a Farmland Rural Conservation Overlay Zoning District.

Identify for long-term planning which roads will be used by low density residential growth, where rural road widths and pavement type should be maintained, and which roads shall become well-traveled connectors and be improved. Review the policy concerning private roads as public roads based upon the improvement of such roads to Town standards prior to acceptance.

Policy-Protect the rural qualities of roads, paved and unpaved. Design standards should be adopted for the roads and nearby development that preserve the rural character and provide safe travel.

Policy-Rural character can be retained with design standards related to road safety, width, geometry, and drainage and roadside vegetation.

Include traffic impacts in Town review of subdivision and new large - scale development proposals including commercial and industrial projects. Expand the current Commercial Site Review process and extend the developer's responsibility for Town road improvements should the expected traffic from new development adversely affect road conditions or safe traffic circulation.

Coordinate with RIDOT design staff and discuss state projects in public forums with the Town Council, Planning Board, Conservation Commission and other Town agencies on a regular basis.

Town staff should work with RIDOT design staff on an ongoing basis and with state projects to ensure the needs of the Town are met. Examples include Rte 94, Rte 102, and Rte 6 improvements.

Town staff should maintain an updated list of improvements on Federal aid roads (Transportation Improvement Program, (TIP) to respond to State request for projects. This list should be updated and compiled through an open public process including review by the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, and Town Council.

Town staff should track proposed (TIP) improvement projects to be sure that the projects are still appropriateDRAFT at the time they receive funding for design.

Establish and promote a privately and publicly developed trail system utilizing alternative routes (hiking/bridle trails) primarily along rural roads through Foster and connecting scenic areas, hamlets and neighboring communities. This trail system would provide access to scenic and historic resources as well as an alternative mode of transportation. Establishment of these routes would also be an asset for promoting development of recreation and tourism based small business opportunities.

Transportation Network Page 94

Manage route 6 commercial development and other areas designated by the EDAC, including curb cuts and the location and character of development.

Zone for nodal development along the corridor such as overlay zoning.

Improve signage and safety features on major through-routes within the Town.

Improve enforcement of traffic regulations on major through-routes within the Town.

Explore designation and funding for a Medivac Helicopter Pad.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

Goals Objectives Policies Actions

DRAFT

Transportation Network Page 95

Update scenic roads itemized in the Historic/ Scenic inventory and nominate the most important of these roads for State Scenic Road designation using the RIDOT criteria for such Scenic roads, both nominations, including those nominated for scenic roads that are State designation and scheduled for State funded Designate and those chosen for local improvement projects. nominate 5 listing, should be scenic roads protected through Adopt design standards for over the next improvement standards roads that preserve the 10 years. implemented at the rural character and provide local level and through safe travel. Retain the rural a Conservation Zoning. character of all Include traffic impacts in paved and Town review of subdivision unpaved roads Ensure that scenic and new large scale while ensuring roads which form public development proposals that all roads are linkages for the North - including commercial and safe. South Trail System are industrial projects. Expand upgraded in a sensitive the current Commercial fashion following design Site standards which retain Plan Review process and their scenic integrity extend the and allow an developer’s appropriate trail responsibility for town road function as well as improvements should he vehicle use. expected traffic from new development adversely affect road conditions or DRAFTsafe traffic circulation. Town staff should maintain an updated list of improvements needed on Federalaid roads (Transportation Improvement Program, TIP) in order to be able to respond to State requests for projects. This list should Transportation Network Page 96

Manage traffic patterns in areas designated for commercial development

Manage traffic patterns in areas designated for commercial development

Coordinate with RIDOT design staff and discuss state projects in public forums with the Town Establish and Council, Planning promote a trail Board, Conservation system utilizing Commission and other alternative routes Complete Town agencies on a (hiking/bridle multi-use regular basis to ensure Coordinate with landowners trails) primarily (hiking/bridle) that the needs of the and interested stakeholders along rural roads trail network. Town are met. to create a network of through Foster Examples include Rte bicycling and walking paths. and connecting 94, Rte 102 and Rte 6 scenic areas, improvements. hamlets and neighboring Town staff should communities. coordinate bridge reconstruction with RIDOT to make sure that the reconstructed bridges are compatible with the town's rural character and its ability to maintain the bridges over time. The current wooden bridge program includes compatible DRAFTdesign and should be encouraged.

Transportation Network Page 97

Implement and fund a road and bridge Improvement plan for upgrades and maintenance. This plan would provide for the paving of important Develop a connector roads, allowing town road & Develop a funding plan others to remain as Bridge to meet needs for road Road & Bridge unpaved rural and scenic Improvement and bridge maintenance roads. Plan. and improvements. Reevaluate and update the road and bridge Improvement Plan and projections for funding every 5 years.

Identify which roads will be used by low density Rural character can be residential growth, where retained with design rural road widths and standards related to pavement type should be road safety, width, maintained, and which geometry, drainage and roads should become roadside vegetation. welltraveled connectors and be improved. DRAFT

Transportation Network Page 98

GROWING ECONOMY

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ EXISTING CONDITIONS

❖ PROJECTED CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENT OF CONDITIONS

❖ OPPORTUNITIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION Economic development in Foster has several meanings – greater employment opportunities, broadening of the local tax base and community growth. This chapter seeks to describe Foster’s assets and disadvantages for economic development as well as the parameters for a proactive strategy to achieve seemingly elusive goals to meet local economic needs. As a rural community, Foster’s local economy has included various agricultural-based businesses (including wholesale and retail food production and distribution), an active cottage industry of self-employed craftsmen and professionals working from their homes, small retail, service and forestry businesses, commercial recycling and healthcare. Its local labor force however, exceeds the employment opportunity available from these industries and sectors.

Nearly all planning areas share direct connections with economic development – from maintaining natural resources through environmental stewardship to ensuring people can reliably travel to stores, appointments and workplaces from homes they can afford. Future land uses will play a critical role in the success of the community’s economic activities into the century.

EXISTING CONDITIONS Like other communities in Rhode Island and the state itself, Foster was greatly impacted by the recession which took place in the late 2000s. Profits and job numbers fell and led to businesses closing their doors and workers moving away. At the same time, other workers with the same mentality (though in smaller numbers) came and the economic hardship motivated growth in new areas of theDRAFT economy. In 2016, statistics indicate the economy is still sensitive and increasing in performance.

EMPLOYMENT The 2000 Census reported Foster’s workers employed in the labor force totaled about 2,295. Educational, health and social services workers totaled more than a quarter (27.4 percent) of the employed labor force while manufacturing (11.0 percent) and retail trade (9.9 percent) employed the second and third largest numbers of workers, respectively. Among the 2,183 workers 16 years and over, 254 (11.6 percent) were commuting to their place of work within

Growing Economy Page 99

15 minutes while 467 (21.4 percent) had to travel for 45 minutes or more. More than four out of every five (87.1 percent) of these workers, plus those working from home, worked within the local metropolitan statistical area (MSA) which spanned nearly all of the state as well as several communities in southeastern Massachusetts.

The most recent American Community Survey estimates the employed labor force grew by about 248 workers to 2,543 in the 2010-2014 period; simultaneously however, the unemployment percent of the labor force almost doubled from 5.7 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent in 2010-2014. While seven of the 13 economic industries lost workers (totaling about 257 workers), educational, health and social services, manufacturing and retail trade remained the three largest industry employers for Foster’s employed labor force and together contributed nearly three quarters (74.7 percent) of the 505 workers added. The number of workers not working at home with a commute of 15 minutes or less dropped to 149 (6.1 percent) while it increased to 719 (29.2 percent) for those workers travelling for 45 or more minutes. Including those working from home, an additional 218 workers were estimated to work within the local MSA. Despite this, the number fell slightly as a percent due to the 140 additional workers whose place of employment was now within another MSA (most likely outside the state).

The statistics indicate the recession of the late 2000s solidified the reliance on core industries for jobs but dispersed the location of these workplaces to a broader, more regional area. It also resulted in unemployment rising at a greater rate than employment within a steadily growing labor force. This is confirmed by seasonally unadjusted employment rates reported by the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (RIDLT) and shown in Figure //:

Figure # Seasonally Unadjusted Labor Force and Employment, 2000-2015

2,900 SIGNIFICANT INDUSTRIES Agriculture 2,175 The cultivation and production of crops and the raising of livestock have been important economic activities in Foster 1,450 since at least the turn of the eighteenth century. From the 1790s to the 1820s, the significant development 725 DRAFTwhich took place in the town was due largely to the success of the agricultural sector. From the 1830s to 0 the 1870s however, much of Foster’s 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 population emigrated from the town Labor Force Employed seeking new opportunities arising from the country’s growing number of Source: RIDLT Local Area Unemployment Statistics, 2000-2015 mills and westward expansion. While agriculture continued to be the occupation of most workers who remained in the labor force, technological advancements

Growing Economy Page 100

from industrialization and the rise of commercial farming in the west greatly impacted local operations. New crops and increased egg, milk and poultry production were some of these results, as was economic diversification.

While the economic strength of agriculture declined in New England throughout the twentieth century, advocacy for and interest in food systems is supporting a new wave of business and activity throughout the state and region. Foster, as a community with a strong agricultural tradition, recognizes both the sector’s synchrony with maintaining a rural character and its economic value. Adopting zoning regulations which encourage agricultural-based businesses and a robust food system to continue and grow in the twenty-first century is a fundamental action already taken by the town.

Table // Agricultural Uses by Zoning District, 2016 Zoning District Use AR NC GBM MI R-SC M Raising animals for home use ✓ ✓ X ✓ X X Raising a maximum of 35 animal on five acres or less (and five additional animals ✓ X X ✓ X X for each individual acres over five acres) for sale or for sale of animal products Raising animal exceeding the above for s/p X X s/p X X sale or for sale of animal products1 Raising crops and forest products ✓ ✓ s/p ✓ X X Commercial nursery structures ✓ ✓ ✓ X X Sale of produce raised on the premises ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X X Poultry farm with capacity for >10,000 s/p s/p X s/p X X birds One 200 square foot (sf) wood building not less than 120 sf not for the purpose of s/p s/p s/p s/p X s/p housing animals2 Fruit and vegetable stand s/p ✓ ✓ ✓ X X Source: Foster Planning DepartmentDRAFT Notes: 1See Article VI Section 19 for supplementary regulations; 2Use would require a reapplication for a special use permit every three years and the Building Official shall review the use of the building for compliance purposes; ‘✓’ denotes permitted by right; ‘s/p’ denotes permitted as a special use; ‘X’ denotes not permitted

In 2015, the Rhode Island Food Policy Council (RIFPC) and the Rhode Island Agricultural Partnership identified 51 farms operating in Foster. This was the largest number among any city or town in the state, making up 21.4 percent of all farms in Providence County and 8.7 percent of all farms in Rhode Island. In further review, three of these farms were more recently identified as being out of operation while an additional 10 were identified by Farm

Growing Economy Page 101

Fresh Rhode Island (FarmFresh RI). While this updated total of 61 farms indicates the town’s farm-friendly zoning requirements, perhaps more telling is that just over half of the 29 farms whose year of establishment could be found began operating no later than in 2000.

These operations range in activity from single-commodity enterprises to full-scale harvesting and distribution and represent the synergy required to provide consumers with healthful food products. The locavore movement has played an integral part in households’ increasing demands for harvests from in-state and regional farmers while the state’s (and its capital city’s) growing national profile as a culinary destination is furthering the need for locally sourced ingredients among restaurants and other food servicers. Over 500 restaurants in Rhode Island, as well as in Connecticut and Massachusetts, reported purchasing ingredients from local farmers and producers to FarmFresh RI as of summer 2016.

Recognizing and responding to student interest in agriculture and career opportunities available in the industry, Ponaganset High School – the upper-secondary school in the Foster- Glocester School District – offers academic pathways – The programs of study for Plant Systems and Animal Systems include contextual and work-based learning as well as opportunities to participate in activities of the National FFA Organization (“FFA” formerly stood for Future Farmers of America).

Arts and the Cottage Industry Foster has a notable cottage industry broadly comprised of knitting, weaving, decorative woodworking, floral arranging and designing, handcrafting (including lotions, soaps and pottery) and painting. This is likely due in part to the community’s rural setting and agricultural heritage. Self-reliance also appears to be a more common attribute among local workers. The 2000 Census and successive ACS estimates have indicated the number of self- employed workers as a percent of private wage and salary workers (11.5 percent in 2000 and an estimated 7.1 percent in 2010-2014) is one of the highest in Rhode Island. Old Home Days, a three-day event in Foster held annually at the end of July, is one of the most popular occasions for local artists to showcase their work. Artist Open Studios is also held at several different participating art studios in Foster and neighboring Glocester and Scituate throughout the year.

Fishing, Hunting and Recreation Sport and leisure is an important component in the local economy supported by those same factors mentioned in the section on the cottage industry above, as well as by the community’s natural resources. A current inventory of recreation-based businesses includes a country club, a hunting camp, two campgrounds,DRAFT and several private rod and gun clubs and gun shops. While not producing direct revenue, public accessibility to walking and hiking trails may have some impact on enlarging the customer bases for local businesses by attracting visitors from nearby communities.

Forestry While fields are widespread throughout town, most were created by the clearing of hardwood forest in the early colonial era and have been maintained through the centuries by grazing animals. While agriculture was predominant, the surplus lumber made available was the

Growing Economy Page 102

foundation for a robust forestry industry which also developed in town. At one point, Foster was home to more than three-quarters of all major sawmills in Rhode Island.

Today, there is one sawmill active in town. Though the industry has waned, forestry does continue to have a presence in Foster. Wood for heating fuel remains an important local commodity and many local operations rely on private individual labor and small-scale companies managing forests for forest products based on environmentally sound strategies and proper ecological management practices.

Health Care Health care has been the major industry of employment for Foster’s labor force since at least 2000 and a limited number of medical professional have practiced in the community. The town’s first health services facility – WellOne Primary Medical and Dental Care – opened in 2009 and as of 2016 provides primary medical care, dental services (which had not been available in the town since at least 1989) and behavioral health services. A medical laboratory is also located onsite. Foster traditionally had a limited number of doctors each practicing within his or her own office; however, now with the health facility there are numerous doctors from various medical fields, and their assistants working in one central location.

Small Retail and Service Businesses State routes 6 (Danielson Pike) and 101 (Hartford Pike) are used by more vehicles than any other segments of the local roadway network. This statistic has been a primary factor in the town’s decisions to designate their abutting parcels as commercial zones. Commerce is broadly defined and existing commercial uses in Foster include retailing merchandise, fueling and servicing vehicles, preparing meals and snacks and providing lodging and other services.

In 2007, when the state reached its peak number of employers just before the recession of the late 2000s began taking hold, the accommodation and food services industry had a more common physical presence in Foster (eight employers) than either other non-public administration services (five employers) or retail trade (three employers). When the number of employers finally surpassed the 2007 count in 2015 however, it indicated another of the economic downturn’s impacts locally. The two services industries have both experienced slight decline while notable growth has occurred in retail.

Figure // Employers in Foster by Select Industries, 2005-2015 8 6 DRAFT 4

2

0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Accommodation and Food Services Other Services Retail Trade Source: Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, RIDLT

Growing Economy Page 103

Similar trends also took place in the average employment of these industries. In 2007, the eight accommodation and food service employers had an average of 37 employees, more than three times the average number of employees among other service employers (11) and more than four times the average among retail trade employers (7). While employment decreased as the recession took hold (the gap occurring in other services from 2009 to 2012 is due to the average number of employees in 2010 and 2011 being too small to report), the retail trade has recorded significant growth since 2012, the same year in which the number of employers also grew.

Figure // Average Employment in Foster by Select Industries, 2005-2015 50

38

25

13

0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Accommodation and Food Services Other Services Retail Trade Source: Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, RIDLT

Between May 2011 and May 2016, the state collected about $78,850 in revenue from businesses levying the one percent meal and beverage tax. This was the lowest combined revenue of any city or town in the state. Looking at the figure below, there is a clearly correlation between tax revenue generated and the time of the year. January has consistently been the month of lowest revenue while the same can be said for winter among the four regional seasons. The highest revenue months have been May, September and October.

Figure // One Percent Meal and Beverage State Tax Revenue, May 2011-2016 $3,000 $2,250 DRAFT $1,500

$750

$0 May-16 Dec-15 Jul-15 Feb-15 Sept-14 Apr-14 Nov-13 Jun-13 Jan-13 Aug-12 Mar-12 Oct-11 May-11 Source: Rhode Island Department of Revenue

Growing Economy Page 104

ROUTE 6 REZONING PROJECT In September 2009, the town’s Planning Board presented a proposal to the Town Council to rezone parcels along Route 6 (Danielson Pike) with the intent to extinguish strip zoning (in this case, the term refers to the area between the public right-of-way [Danielson Pike] and a setback line running parallel to the right-of-way which was designated for commercial zone uses) which often divided parcels into separate agricultural/residential and commercial portions. This presented a burden on owners by only allowing commercial development to occur nearer to the pike or agricultural/residential development to occur further from the pike – preventing a parcel’s full development.

The Planning Board had been reviewing other commercial corridors since 2004 to draw comparisons with Route 6 and seek zoning which would reform the areas. It was concluded that pockets of commercial areas would be the most economically viable choice and the Board made the following determinations:

• All properties containing residential dwelling units or containing no development would be designated as Agricultural/Residential

• All properties containing commercial businesses would be designated as General Business Mixed Use, which would allow more than one use on the parcel to limit a potential demand for subdivisions and curb cuts

The Planning Board’s leadership in encouraging overall site design considerations in future commercial development through the rezoning project was recognized by the state chapter of the American Planning Board in 2010 with an award for “Outstanding Plan Implementation.”

REDEVELOPMENT The Turnquist Lumber site at 180 Hartford Pike is the only manufacturing/industrially-zoned area in Foster. The large business on the property was purchased as a location for a recycling operation. There is also presently a second building located on the site that the current owners have expressed intent to open as a small, freestanding business. There has also been a proposal to reconstruct an additional building on the location to establish smaller, community-oriented businesses. To the west of the Turnquist Lumber site is a structure which was previously used a two-unit residence with a small ceramics business in a third unit. That site has now become a commercial business. The site was extensively renovated, and it appears to be accepted wellDRAFT by the community. PROJECTED CONDITIONS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Looking at recent history and contemporary trends, RIDLT has projected several occupations in the health care, manufacturing and retail trade industries will be among the fastest growing from 2014 to 2024. This would indicate these industries will thus continue to be important suppliers of employment opportunity to the local labor force. Figure// below illustrates comparable employment over a decade among several occupational groups.

Growing Economy Page 105

Figure // Select Occupational Groups by Projected Employment, 2014-2024 5000

3750

2500

1250

0 Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports and Media Healthcare Support

Net Employment Growth Job Growth Source: RIDLT Occupational Outlook 2024

LOCAL INDUSTRY TRENDS Health Care Health care has been a primary focus industry among state leaders, academic institutions and other stakeholders interested in developing the state’s knowledge economy. The recent and planned expansions of biomedical engineering and pharmaceutical science programs at several universities in Rhode Island, among other developments, are one indicator that the push for high-technology (hi-tech) in the state may be taking hold.

Hi-tech industries generally seek a well-educated labor force, however, and Foster has experienced brain drain in its 25 to 34-year-old age group greater than almost all communities in the state according to 2010-2014 ACS estimates on educational attainment. The number of 18 to 24 year olds with at least some college education was much larger as a percent of their whole age group though, suggesting Foster is undergoing a period of brain gain. This is further supported by the local public school systems (for more information, see Chapter //).

Agriculture In contrast to health care, as well as the food services industry, agriculture has been projected to experience low employment gains from 2014 to 2024 across the state. As Foster contains the largest number of farms in Rhode Island, and many of these have entered operation in only the past 16 years, there is reason to expect the local farming sector will continue to grow in the community.DRAFT

PLANNED REDEVELOPMENT Foster recently implemented a general business Mixed Use zone on Route 6. Within that zone, the maximum building size has been changed from 10,000 sq.ft. to a lot based size criterion. The town is partnering with GrowSmart and Providence Water to consider a zoning overlay to permit some accessory business uses with single family residences. The town is also in the early stages of considering a cannabis cultivation ordinance in recognition of changing state law and policy with respect to cannabis cultivation. A site located at the

Growing Economy Page 106

intersection of Route 6 and Route 94 was once the location of a well-known local family restaurant. The site was dormant for nearly a decade after a fire destroyed the building. New owners have contacted the Planning Department and the Building and Zoning Department to determine necessary steps for the redevelopment of the site into a small, mixed-use development. It appears that the beginning of the redevelopment of this site could occur soon. This project, if completed, would meet at least one of the two intentions of the Route 6 rezoning project.

As of summer, 2016, Foster is also awaiting news of the purchase of one of its primary designated sites for affordable housing by a non-profit community development corporation. If the purchase does take place, the development of additional sustainable affordable housing would create a variety of jobs within the Foster community, and would serve as another component of the village center design sought for Route 6, containing both residences and small businesses.

ASSESSMENT OF CONDITIONS

Issues Affecting Economic Growth in Foster In this section, Foster will identify which categories of issues currently impact its economy or may or are forecasted to effect economic growth in the next twenty (20) years.

As revealed in community surveys, Foster’s residents want a more diverse tax base while retaining the rural qualities and features that have attracted them to remain in, relocate or return to the town.

This rural lifestyle can further economic growth within the State of Rhode Island; as Foster can be classified as a rural living area that complements the suburban and urban environments around Narragansett Bay and the Blackstone River.

Though economic recovery and growth in Foster has moved at a slower pace than the state as a whole, there are indeed economic development opportunities to be explored. These include redevelopments taking place along commercial corridors in Foster and the spirit of self- reliance among residents, many of whom are open to new economic opportunities for themselves through unconventional resources or venues.

Regional OpportunitiesDRAFT STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES, THREATS ANALYSIS

STRENGTHS Virtually all employment in Foster is of a small business nature and is not subject to the whims of absentee owners.

Individual ingenuity and independence seem to characterize the local economic scene.

Growing Economy Page 107

Overall, the economic growth of Rhode Island is furthered by having reasonably accessible rural living areas to complement the suburban and urban areas of the State.

Foster has a living and physical environment and a self-reliant population; and some of our businesses are long existing businesses

WEAKNESSES Foster’s attractive living environment will continue to draw those who seek a more rural lifestyle while working outside of the Foster community.

Being a bedroom community, some residents are more likely to make purchases outside of Foster. Incomes available from local employment, except for those who may be self-employed, generally will not support the cost of purchasing a new house/home in Foster. The lack of public sewer and water services, the considerable distance from employment / housing centers in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, and the constraints imposed by having greater than fifty-five percent (55%) of the Town within the Scituate Reservoir Watershed limit the community’s options.

The Scituate Reservoir Watershed Management Plan, the State Guide Plan Element 125, requires that wherever possible, commercial, retail and light industrial uses be located outside of the watershed.

OPPORTUNITIES The natural features of the community open the door for possible tourism – which will make use of the significant natural and scenic resources of the community. Agri-Toursim is just one such example.

On a broader scale Foster has the potential to capitalize on combining existing resources such as visual qualities and historic areas with publicly and privately supported actions to make tourism, recreational activities, and other non-traditional approaches, a source of revenue and employment for residents.

Cottage industries (as listed under Strengths) and similar activities would bring even greater diversity to the local economy without introducing suburban style developments. All these would tend to complement the Town’s attractiveness as a destination for those seeking “slow lane” recreational diversions from the “fast lanes” of their daily lives. THREATS DRAFT The national, regional and statewide outlook for economic recovery and development is slowly moving forward.

The population of the community is aging, and therefore, economic development must not only be structured to meet the needs of our current population, but also one that is aging; however, there is still the need to create the type of economic development that attracts a younger population to the community.

Growing Economy Page 108

Limited funds are available to, and are difficult to get by private individuals for commercial development. For example: one landowner stated how the bank did not want to offer funding until he had commercial tenants, yet the possible tenants did not want to commit until they knew the construction was funded.

Agriculture To craft policies and determine implementation actions that can help to capitalize on the community’s agricultural opportunities, consider the following guiding questions: Are there any opportunities to expand the components of the agricultural system within the municipality? What opportunities exist for enhancing public access to local agricultural products? How can the people and organizations currently doing agricultural work be better supported?

Reduced Food Miles Traveled: Most of the food that is purchased within Rhode Island is brought in from out-of-state. Improving the local agricultural system by encouraging more production- based farms, allowing food processing facilities and retail outlets in close proximity to farms and adopting local food purchasing policies will reduce the overall number of miles food travels before it ends up on a Rhode Island table. The benefits of reduced food miles include decreased air pollution, reduced oil consumption, and improved population health, with the added bonus of decreased cost of food.

Increased Access to Healthy Food: With a robust local food system and multiple points of sale, all Rhode Islanders will experience increased access to healthy foods. Additionally, Rhode Island’s food supply will be less vulnerable to emergencies that may occur in the industrial food system, such as a salmonella outbreak.

Increased Sense of Community: An important part of supporting local agriculture is allowing farmers’ markets and farm stands, and these specialized retail outlets bring together residents, families, artists and farmers in an unprecedented way. The state’s many farmers’ markets are well attended, especially by people who live in the neighborhoods in which the events are held.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS Goals DRAFTObjectives Policies Actions

Growing Economy Page 109

Broaden the The creation of a To promote economic Develop and maintain a sources of Town village center development sensitive list of possible light revenues to assure along the Route 6 to Foster’s rural and industrial and a sound financial corridor, to village character, and commercial future to achieve encourage a the historical, cultural development and Town goals mixed use of and environmental research facilities to expressed in the residences and resources of each. attract to Foster and Comprehensive commercial promote this at the Plan. entities. Encourage retail state level. commercial The creation of a development necessary Designate and possibly Encourage viable to provide convenient rezone suitable areas commercial growth manufacturing / services to Foster for viable manufacturing using a framework industrial residents within the / commercial parks. for mutual success, center / park confines of existing to develop within the Foster commercially zoned Develop and maintain infrastructure at community. areas. tax incentives to assist the lowest possible in achieving the cost, with the To achieve the Encourage compatible economic and lowest possible economic cottage-type industries environmental environmental development development goals and impact, maintaining goals of this plan Encourage the policies, including the rural character while maintaining continuation and cottage industries. of the town. the compatibility growth of economic and consistency activities such as Hold seminars and field with other Plan recreation, forestry, trips to attract Encourage viable elements, and and agriculture, which principals interested in and sustainable Land Use 2025. are related to the rural assisted living and agricultural related natural resources of senior housing businesses. Develop a the town, and support development and reputation as an local employment coordinate efforts with artist-friendly opportunities, which the affordable housing community and relate to indigenous program. tourist and rural resources and destination. occupations. Enact development controls and Increase the Support the activities performance standards numberDRAFT of of an Economic in the zoning ordinance businesses within Development Advisory to mitigate conflicts the Foster Commission to explore between commercial community. and solicit preferred and industrial development development and other Develop an opportunities for uses. economic base location in Foster and These include capable of to work with successful but are not limited to: providing a Foster businesses, the - buffers to side desirable local Chambers of and rear lots; Growing Economy Page 110

Agriculture Home occupations

DRAFT

Growing Economy Page 111 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

❖ INTRODUCTION

❖ EXISTING CONDITIONS

❖ PROJECTED CONDITIONS

❖ ASSESSMENT OF CONDITIONS

❖ GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

INTRODUCTION Housing is a fundamental component of communities and is dependent on many aspects including the allocation of land for residential and commercial uses as well as the infrastructure and facilities available or planned to deliver services. It also has considerable influence over our choices and options for transportation as well as our consumption and use of energy. Further, the Town of Foster recognizes the need to provide an inclusive supply of housing and to contribute in overcoming a regional shortage of affordable housing. This chapter will offer a review and response to findings from contemporary data, estimates and projections on housing and housing-related information to ensure quality and affordable homes continue to serve the community.

EXISTING CONDITIONS The official housing stock for Foster at the dissemination of the 2010 Census was 1,775 units. This accounted for less than half of one percent of the total housing stock in Rhode Island and was an increase of 197 units (a 12.48 percent increase) from the previous census in 2000.

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Of the [50.8] square miles of land area in Foster, [%] is within the Agricultural/Residential (AR) zoning district. By the dimensional regulations the zone requires, including a minimum 200,000 square foot lot size and a three percent maximum building coverage, nearly all developed real estate exists as single-family homes on multi-acre parcels. As of the 2010 Census, the town had an overall housing density of less than one unit per acre; alternatively, this was almost 35 units per square mile.

The few areas of slightly greater density generally correspond to hamlets and villages listed as historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), such as Clayville, Foster Center, Hopkins Mills, and Moosup Valley (for more information on Foster’s historic resources go to Chapter //). Though not registered on the NRHP and built long after the colonial and federal eras, a World War II era military housing development for personnel working at the nearby Nike missile site was later purchased by a private developer. The houses, together known locally as Abbey Lane, are now in private ownership.

Implementation Program Page 112 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Along with smaller lot sizes and shorter setbacks, these areas also have their own development constraints and issues regarding private wells and onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) - or a private community well and community wastewater treatment system in the case of Abbey Lane - due to the absence of any public water or sewer system in the town. Each also has unique characteristics which make them distinct among one another.

Growth Management As noted in the Population chapter, there was significant residential growth in the second half of the twentieth century when measured as the number of people living in Foster. Overall, the population more than doubled from 1950 to 2000 as an average of almost 53 residents joined the community each year.

Although there was a slight decline between 1990 and 2000, which may have been due to undercounting, building permit information reported to the Census Bureau did not reflect a decline in residents. As depicted in Figure// below, there was actually a notable increase in the number of permits being issued after 1997. When the predecessor to this comprehensive plan was adopted in 2003, Foster was projected to continue experiencing demand for and growth in housing construction. Shortly thereafter, the town then developed a Growth Management Program (GMP) which was adopted by the Town Council as part of the town’s zoning ordinance in March 2004. The GMP, citing the number of housing units projected for 2010 to be 1,948, allowed for a maximum of 26 permits to be issued annually for a timeframe extending to the end of the decade (the timeframe of the GMP is indicated by the blue shading in Figure //). Ultimately, exactly half of the maximum 182 new permits allowed under the GMP’s regulations were issued. The official number of housing units in 2010 was 173 less than the 2004 projection.

The Town allowed the expiration of the GMP at the end of 2010. In the years since, Foster has experienced comparatively slower growth with fewer requests for residential units being submitted to the Building and Zoning Department. Only three building permits for new residential construction were issued in 2016 as of July. Though no longer in place, the Town should consider having a new study completed in the near future to update the previous findings, in order to be prepared for the next onslaught of the next housing boom.

Figure // Reported Building Permits Issued in Foster, 1996-2015 20

15

10

5

0 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Source: Building Permits Survey, US Census Bureau

Implementation Program Page 113 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Physical Characteristics

As of the 2010-2014 five-year period, the ACS estimated most of Foster’s housing units (1,594 units or 92.4 percent of the total estimate) were single-family homes while a small minority (111 units or 6.43 percent) were within multi-family homes including duplexes and triplexes. The property with the largest number of units in Foster was Hemlock Village, which contained 30 units spread out between four structures (eight units each in three structures built in 1982 and an additional six units in a fourth structure built in 1989). The remaining 1.22 percent (21 units) of total housing units was made up of mobile homes. Likely, these homes were in local campgrounds which generally have a larger seasonal population during the summer months.

By construction, 213 units (12.34 percent) were estimated to have been built in or after 2000 while 1,103 units (63.90 percent) were built prior to 1980. The oldest homes in Foster date back to the eighteenth century, offering greater value to the town’s local heritage landscapes and providing some affordability to those whose homes were transferred from family in earlier generations. Due to the age of some homesteads however, there can be a need for rehabilitation which could be challenging to homeowners. Successful and affordable rehabilitation would likely be a factor supporting current and future homeowners choosing or being able to remain in their homes and in the community.

HOUSEHOLDS AND TENURE Though taking place during a period of economic decline in the state, only 68 (3.83 percent) of Foster’s 1,775 housing units were reported vacant at the dissemination of the 2010 Census. Inversely, 1,707 (96.17 percent) were occupied – the largest percentage of any city or town in the state. Overall, 1,760 units (99.15 percent) could be considered year-round as only 15 units (0.85 percent) remained vacant for seasonal, recreational or occasional use.

The number of occupied housing units is always equivalent to the number of households, as a household is defined as a housing unit with one or more occupants. Of Foster’s 1,707 households in 2010, 1,302 (76.27 percent) were families and 405 (23.73 percent) were nonfamilies. The average household size was 2.68 persons (a slight decline from 2.77 persons in 2000) and 99.50 percent of the local population resided in a household (meaning, conversely, 23 people lived outside of a family or nonfamily).

Households are identified as families when they contain at least two people related to one another by adoption, birth or marriage. The 2010 Census included three sub-family categories: husband-wife families, female householder with no husband present and male householder with no wife present. A large majority of families in Foster (84.02 percent) were husband-wife families while a minority (38.79 percent) included children under 18 years old. The average family size was 3.05 persons, also a slight decline from 3.14 persons in 2000. Households without any occupants related by adoption, birth or marriage or consisting of only one occupant are nonfamilies. More than three out of every four nonfamilies in Foster (78.77 percent) consisted of residents living alone.

Homeownership was much more prevalent among households than renting, with 1,508 units – nearly nine out of every ten occupied units (88.34 percent) – owner-occupied. This percent

Implementation Program Page 114 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan was the second highest in the state and its homeowner vacancy rate, as well as its rental vacancy rate (4.3 percent), was also the lowest among Rhode Island’s communities. Renter- occupied units totaled 199 (11.66 percent of total occupied units). Many factors likely contributed to the local housing stock’s high levels of occupation and homeownership, including its small population, geographic location, rural character and private household finances.

HOUSING AFFORDABILITY At the beginning of the century, median single family home prices were increasing at significant rates in Rhode Island and many of its communities. The median price peaked in Foster at $389,950 in 2005 before a consecutive six-year decline, fueled by the subprime mortgage crisis and late 2000s recession, brought down the median price to $225,000 in 2011. Since then, median prices have been generally fluctuating. In 2015, the median price was $245,900.

Figure // Median Single-Family Home Prices, 2004-2014 $400,000 $300,000 $200,000 $100,000 $0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Median single-family home price Source: HousingWorks RI fact books, 2005-2015

Average rent did not experience a similar trend. While such information was not reported for Foster due to its small stock of renter-occupied households, a review of the state’s average rent and the average rents for nearby Burrillville (available for 2009 and after) and neighboring Scituate (available 2013 and after) for two bedroom apartments indicate a stable, perhaps slight decline. In 2004, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Rhode Island was $1,121. Five years later, it had increased by only 4.37 percent to $1,170. At the same time, average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Burrillville was $1,228. As of 2014, average rents were $1,172, $1,047 and $1,240 for Rhode Island, Burrillville and Scituate, respectively.

Figure // Average Two Bedroom Rents in Rhode Island, 2004-2014 $1,400 $1,050 $700 $350 $0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Average 2 bedroom rent (Rhode Island) Average 2 bedroom rent (Burrillville) Average 2 bedroom rent (Scituate) Source: HousingWorks RI fact books, 2005-2015

Implementation Program Page 115 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

The ability to afford a home is a critical matter for all households in Foster regardless of their type, size, tenure or location. While affordability has no uniformly standard definition, it has generally been accepted to exist when a household’s spending on housing costs equals no more than 30 percent of its annual income. This threshold has been used since the 1980s by many organizations and programs involved in housing finance, including the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the research center HousingWorks RI at Roger William University.

The most current statistics on affordability from HUD and HousingWorks RI were respectively made available in their Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data and 2015 Fact Book. While both used 2009-2013 American Community Survey five-year estimates as their source of data, each used similar though separate methodologies in finding cost burden. Arguably the most noticeable difference was that HousingWorks RI excluded owner-occupied households reporting negative or no income and renter-occupied households reporting no rent. The cost burdens calculated by HUD and HousingWorks RI are shown in Table // below:

Table // Cost Burden by Tenure, 2009-2013 Owner-occupied Renter-occupied HousingWorks HousingWorks CHAS CHAS RI RI Foster 25.78% 26% 46.15% 60% Providence County 34.42% - 46.68% - Rhode Island 33.37% 35% 45.48% 51%

Sources: CHAS Data Query Tool and 2015 HousingWorks RI FactBook

The table presents Foster’s housing affordability when looking at all income levels for owner- and renter-occupied households in comparison to Providence County and the state as a whole. Despite Foster’s significantly smaller occupied housing stock being largely comprised of owner-occupied units, only about a quarter of these were experiencing cost burden according to the calculations of both HUD (370 of 1,435 households) and HousingWorks RI. Less than half of these households per the CHAS (125 or 8.71 percent) were experiencing severe cost burdens of more than 50 percent of their incomes spent on housing costs.

In renter-occupancy however, there was a divergence in the percentage of households experiencing cost burden in Foster and, to a lesser extent, Rhode Island (county-level indicators were not reported in the 2015 Fact Book). This is likely due to the differences in calculations noted above and a high margin of error for Foster due to its small housing stock. The CHAS reported 60 of 130 renter-occupied households were cost burdened while 30 (23.08 percent of all renter-occupied households) were severely cost burdened.

Along with providing cost burden by separate tenures, CHAS data also included the percent of cost burdened owner- and renter-occupied households combined as well. Overall, 27.16 percent of Foster’s households expended more than 30 percent of their income in the past 12

Implementation Program Page 116 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan months on housing costs. This was among the lowest rates in Rhode Island, surpassed only by Lincoln, New Shoreham and Scituate.

Contributors to Cost Burden While these statistics were comparably positive, they did not negate that about one-quarter of all homeowners and around half of all renters continued to face cost burdens in Foster as of the early 2010s. Reviewing the ACS’s definitions of housing costs in its 2009-2013 estimates, there could be any of several factors contributing to cost burden. For homeowners, these might have included mortgages and/or other debt payments, real estate taxes, property insurance and, where appropriate, condominium or mobile home fees. For renters, this might have included contract rent. For both, utility bills and fuel costs could have also played a role.

Fundamentally however, the most impactful factor on housing affordability for both owners and renters would be income. While the ACS did not estimate housing costs as percentage of household income in detail, it did make estimates available through several income brackets: less than $20,000, $20,000 to $34,999, $35,000 to $49,999, $50,000 to $74,999 and $75,000 or more. A condensed representation of these brackets is shown below.

Figure // Housing Costs as a Percent of Household Income by Income Bracket, 2009-2013 900 675 450 225 0 Less than $75,000 $75,000 or more Less than 30 percent 30 percent or more Source: ACS 2009-2013 five-year estimates

As $75,000 was the closest value to the estimated median incomes and income needed to afford the median single-family home price, it could be expected that households in lower income brackets would be more likely to face cost burdens. As Figure // shows, this expectation was accurate. While approximately one-tenth of households with incomes of at least $75,000 were cost burdened, slightly more than half of households could not finance their home affordably when their income was under $75,000. A more detailed overview of this is provided in Figure //.

Implementation Program Page 117 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Figure // Housing Costs as a Percent of Household Income by Lower Income Bracket, 2009-2013 140 70 0 Less than $20,000 $20,000 to $34,999 $35,000 to $49,999 $50,000 to $74,999 Less than 30 percent 30 percent or more Source: ACS 2009-2013 five-year estimates

Overall, any household with an income of less than $75,000 was slightly more likely to be cost burdened than to be able to afford their home with less than 30 percent of their income. These estimates thus confirmed income had a significant impact on housing affordability for households.

Reviewing Table //, the differences in cost burden suggest there was a notable gap between incomes for owner- and renter-occupied households. This was also confirmed by ACS estimates. In the five-year period 2010-2014, the ACS estimated the median owner-occupied household income in Foster to be $86,755. According to HousingWorks RI, the actual income needed to afford the median single family home prices over this five-year period ranged from $65,525 to $78,154. Thus, median income in Foster exceeded the estimated income needed to afford the median-priced single-family home without experiencing cost burden.

Figure // Median Income and Income Needed to Afford Median Single-Family Home Price, 2004-2014 $130,000

$65,000

$0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Income needed to afford the median single-family home price Median owner-occupied household income in the past 12 months Sources: HousingWorks RI fact books, 2005-2015; 2005-2009 and 2010-2014 ACS five-year estimates Note: Median household income ACS estimates are inflation-adjusted to the final year of the estimate period

Median income for renters in the same period was $31,023, or only a little more than one- third of the median owner-occupied household. While some information on renting in Foster was unavailable, a comparison of the local median renter-occupied income to the incomes needed to afford average two bedroom rents in Rhode Island, Burrillville and Scituate presents very different results.

Figure // Median Income and Income Needed to Afford Average Rents in Rhode Island, 2004-2014

Implementation Program Page 118 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

$60,000 $30,000 $0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Income needed to afford the average 2 bedroom rent (Rhode Island) Income needed to afford the average 2 bedroom rent (Burrillville) Income needed to afford the average 2 bedroom rent (Scituate) Median renter-occupied household income in the past 12 months (Foster) Sources: HousingWorks RI fact books, 2005-2015; 2005-2009 and 2010-2014 ACS five-year estimates Note: Median household income ACS estimates are inflation-adjusted to the final year of the estimate period

During and immediately following the economic recession of the late 2000s, information from the State-wide Multiple Listing Service published by Rhode Island Living reported an increase in the annual number of distressed properties. While the number has declined more recently, it is indicative of how near some households - particularly those of lower incomes - may be to losing their home. Currently, there are no shelters in northwestern Rhode Island to provide emergency bedding for cases of home loss.

LMI HOUSING In 2004, Rhode Island adopted the Low and Moderate Income Housing Act to address the state’s deficit of affordable housing available to citizens with low or moderate incomes (LMI). As defined in Rhode Island General Law (RIGL) §45-53-3, the act sets a mandate for all municipalities to contribute to the state’s LMI housing stock. The mandate is successfully met when more than ten percent of the city’s or town’s year-round housing units as officially recorded in the most recent US Census are subsidized by a municipal, state or federal program providing assistance for LMI housing construction or rehabilitation and will remain affordable through a land lease and/or deed restriction for no less than 30 years from the time of initial occupancy. Based on these criteria, or alternative criteria made available for urban communities in the state with significant stocks of rental housing, ten cities and town had achieved the mandate as of 2016.

Table // below uses CHAS data based on 2009-2013 ACS estimates to identify the cost burdens experienced by LMI households in Foster, Providence County and Rhode Island. HousingWorks RI did not report on the cost burden of LMI households in its 2015 Fact Book.

Table // LMI Housing Cost Burdens by Tenure, 2009-2013 LMI Owner-occupied LMI Renter-occupied LMI occupied Severely Severely Cost Severely Cost Cost Cost Cost Burdene Cost Burdened Burdened Burdened Burdened d Burdened Foster 48.94% 34.04% 57.14% 28.57% 50.00% 30.88% Providence County 70.59% 45.03% 63.76% 34.86% 66.03% 38.23% Rhode Island 70.15% 43.59% 63.75% 34.82% 66.21% 38.20% Source: CHAS Data Query Tool, 2009-2013 ACS

Implementation Program Page 119 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

According to the CHAS data, 170 of Foster’s 340 LMI households experienced housing cost burdens and 105 experienced severe housing cost burdens in the 2009-2013 five-year period. By tenure, 115 of 235 owner-occupied LMI households and 60 of 105 renter-occupied LMI households were cost burdened, including 80 owner-occupied households and 30 renter- occupied households severely cost burdened (it should again be noted that there were high margins of error due to Foster’s small housing stock; this resulted in inconsistencies between in reporting on individual and combined tenure). In all cases, Foster’s percentages were lower than those of either the county or the state. In similar result, Foster’s reported cost burden for LMI households was also a lower percent than any of the ten communities meeting the LMI Housing Act’s mandate (of these ten, Newport was the lowest with 56.84 percent of LMI households experiencing cost burden).

Despite Foster’s lower percentages of cost burden among its low and moderate income households, the town was not recognized as meeting the LMI Housing Act’s mandate due to its low percent of deed-restricted affordable LMI housing units. The following figure shows the annual percentage of mandate-meeting units in Foster since the act was adopted in 2004.

Figure // Percentage of Deed-restricted Affordable LMI Housing Units, 2004-2015 2.50% 1.88% 1.25% 0.63% 0.00% 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Total deed-restricted affordable LMI housing units Source: HousingWorks RI fact books, 2005-2015 and RISPP

As of 2015, 36 units (2.05 percent) of the year-round housing stock met the requirements of the act. Most these (30 units, or 83.33 percent) were in Hemlock Village and considered elderly housing financed by US Department of Agriculture Rural Development funds. An additional six units (making up the remaining 16.67 percent) fell into the category of LMI units which were dedicated to neither family nor elderly occupation (other LMI housing units).

Based on the 2010 Census, Foster required a minimum of 176 deed-restricted affordable LMI housing units to meet the state mandate. With 36 units existing, an additional 140 units were thus needed.

LMI Housing Strategies The 2004 Affordable Housing Plan included four strategies which the town has been meant to rely on to attain the additional LMI units needed to meet the statewide mandate: senior housing/resale, coordination between Foster’s Housing Trust and Land Trust, building, rehabilitating and converting units and density bonuses.

Implementation Program Page 120 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

The senior housing sub-strategy has intended to create a senior housing facility providing 30 deed-restricted affordable LMI units modeled on Hemlock Village. The town identified three potential locations for the facility and anticipated it to be completed by 2007 due to its experience in creating and managing such a development. As of 2016, such a facility has not been constructed.

A second sub-strategy has been to convert existing housing units occupied by the elderly into deed-restricted affordable LMI housing through an option for seniors to voluntarily sell their property with the intent for it to be converted into an LMI unit which they can continue to occupy through a tenancy agreement with the buyer. The sub-strategy was projected to result in ten LMI units while [#] units have resulted from the sub-strategy thus far.

The second strategy supports the establishment of a housing trust to coordinate with the existing Foster Land Trust in subdividing the latter’s property acquisitions over the succeeding years to support new LMI housing construction. By 2025, 20 units were expected to exist for LMI families through local funding and funding from Community Development Block Grants, the Federal Housing Authority, the Historic Preservation Fund and other applicable programs. To date, [#] units have been constructed

The third strategy has focused on increasing the LMI housing stock through rehabilitating and converting existing housing units and identified specific locations which could allow for multi- unit structures. With this, the strategy also maintained the 2003 Comprehensive Plan’s call for revisions to the zoning ordinance. A total of 25 units, using the same sources of funding as the previous strategy, were projected to be generated from this strategy before 2025. As of 2016, [#] units have been funded.

The final strategy has been to reconfigure the local residential compound formula and to make use of density bonuses which the LMI Housing Act supports. The strategy required a revision to the 1998 Residential Compound Ordinance to allow for the building of additional housing units on select properties meeting the necessary requirements so long as they would be deed-restricted affordable LMI units. The greater density could be financially advantageous for property owners and developers as it could allow for more housing units to be developed and sold while limiting the construction and installation of utilities through decreased infrastructure costs, shared driveways, utility access, telephone pole placement and other shared services needed. While 140 LMI units were anticipated from this strategy, only [#] have been constructed since 2004.

PROJECTED CONDITIONS

FUTURE HOUSEHOLDS AND HOUSING STOCK As discussed in the Population chapter, the RISPP projected a population of 5,101 for Foster in 2040. Based on a comparison of the 2000 and 2010 censuses, it is likely that about all but 23 of these persons would be in a household as the number of people outside a household fell by one over the ten-year period. Of this remaining population, 4,508 would be within families while 570 would be in nonfamily households. Considering the respective average sizes (the

Implementation Program Page 121 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan average family size was corrected from 3.05 to 3.13 persons in this calculation) of these household types, the resulting population growth would result in a minimum of 1,889 households by 2040. Assuming there would be no increase in the number of vacant housing units, the total housing stock would then be 1,957.

The two most recent censuses also suggest household tenure will remain steady for the next two decades at about 88 percent owner-occupancy and 12 percent renter-occupancy. This would result in about 1,662 owner-occupied households and 227 renter-occupied households in 2040. In comparison, the buildout analysis projects a future population [insert build-out here]

AFFORDABILITY IN 2040 Prior to the recession of the late 2000s, the median owner-occupied household income was several thousand dollars below the average single-family home price. During and after the economic downturn however, a slight increase in median income coupled with a significant drop in home prices to allow the median income to prevail over the average value of a single- family home. As the economy steadily continues to strengthen, it is likely that home prices will rise to once again be more than median household incomes. This is concerning, as it presents a correlation that the percent of households experiencing cost burden decreases during a period of economic downturn. The number of distressed properties rose considerably at the same time however, indicating a small proportion becomes seriously at risk of home loss from such events. Providing deed-restricted affordable LMI units for these households will assist during times of future recessions.

For renter-occupied households, the general stability of rent over the past decade does not indicate rent increases or decreases significantly due to periods of economic downturn. It does, however, indicate a correlation that the gap between the HUD fair market rent (FMR) and the average rent decreases during such cases.

Implementation Program Page 122 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Figure // Fair Market and Average Rents in Rhode Island, 2004-2014 $1,400

$1,050

$700

$350

$0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Average 2 bedroom rent (Rhode Island) Average 2 bedroom rent (Burrillville) Average 2 bedroom rent (Scituate) HUD Fair Market Rent (Foster) Source: HUD FMRs, 2004-2014 and HousingWorks RI fact books, 2005-2015

LMI Housing As projected above, Foster can expect its housing stock in 2040 to be 1,957 housing units assuming no change in the number of vacant housing units from 2010. With this same assumption, the year-round housing stock would then be 1,942 housing units and the number of deed-restricted affordable LMI housing units needed to meet the state mandate would be 193 units.

If the number of currently deed-restricted affordable housing units were to remain at 36 units through this time period, the LMI unit stock would fall as a percent of year-round housing units from 2.05 percent to 1.85 percent. At the same time, the minimum number of additional units needed to meet the state mandate would rise from 140 to 157 LMI units. This would mean all but 25 of the additional units projected to be built from 2010 to 2040 would need to be deed- restricted affordable LMI units. Between January 2010 and July 2016 however, 29 permits for new residential construction have been issued and none are currently projected to contribute to the local LMI housing stock. This indicates Foster will be at least in part reliant on rehabilitating and converting existing units to deed-restricted affordable LMI housing to meet the mandate by 2040.

According to 2009-2013 ACS estimates, the minimum number of households in Foster with incomes lower than 80 percent of the median was 477. Of those, 188 (39.41 percent) were households, either families or nonfamilies, with elderly persons, 133 (27.88 percent) were families without any elderly persons and 156 (32.71 percent [rounded up by 0.01 to ensure the three percentages added to 100 percent) were non-elderly, non-family others. When calculating the distribution of the projected LMI units needed in 2040 based on these percentages and rounding to the nearest whole number, it can be projected that an additional 46 LMI units are needed for the elderly, 54 LMI units are needed for families without elderly persons and 57 units are needed for others.

Implementation Program Page 123 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Table // LMI Projections by Need As a As a Percent of Existing Projected LMI Additional LMI Percent of Lower Income LMI Units Units Needed Units Needed LMI Units Housing Units Elderly 30 83.33% 39.41% 76 46 Families 0 0.00% 27.88% 54 54 Other 6 16.67% 32.71% 63 57 Source: HousingWorks RI 2015 Fact Book and 2009-2013 ACS five-year estimates

ASSESSMENT OF CONDITIONS Foster is a small community that has historically provided its residents an opportunity to grow, mature and retire within the town. Residents, in turn, have a strong attachment to a rural lifestyle supported by an expansive Agricultural/Residential zoning district. Given this character and the local support for its maintenance, Foster must make use of the resources of its board, commissions and committees to collaboratively improve its neighborhoods. Opportunities to take advantage of the growth of general business mixed use zoning and to engage residents in housing-related discussions are also important. Over the twenty-year period this plan projects out to, Foster must seek to address concerns related to housing development and affordability while recognizing its limits due to an absence of a public water supply and public wastewater treatment system and to the importance of ensuring the wellbeing of the Scituate Reservoir Watershed.

MANAGING GROWTH The results of Foster’s growth management study indicate that the town has not reached its maximum build out capacity. It is therefore a reasonable assumption the town can still accommodate more growth in residential construction. This will likely occur even if the projected population growth halts or reverses in the future due to currently unforeseen factors. As mentioned earlier and shown in Table //, there is an unmet need for additional deed-restricted affordable housing for LMI seniors, families and others. Likewise, the demand for senior housing in general could be expected to rise as the local population ages and seeks housing opportunities which provides varying levels of assistance in performing frequent or infrequent tasks.

Another demand, particularly from single parents, seniors, persons with disabilities and those in their 20s and 30s, is an increase in the number of rentable housing units as an option for lower-priced housing. As noted above, the increase in population could be expected to result in an additional 28 units for rent.

One possible way to address this currently insufficient supply of rental units is through the local Zoning Ordinance. In July 1994, new housing categories were established in a revision of the ordinance which promoted accessory apartments attached to primary residences. An accessory apartment could serve as a more affordable opportunity for persons taking care of family members to remain close by. Unfortunately, none of these accessory apartments have

Implementation Program Page 124 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan been counted towards the LMI Housing Act’s mandate.

While the town must respond to these needs, it must also recognize it does not have the public infrastructure in place to furnish public water or public sewers nor will it in the foreseeable future. Currently, each individual household is responsible for constructing and maintaining wells and OWTSs for drinking water and sewer. By extension, this means the costs to construct these private wells and treatment systems are added to the construction of new residences while occupants must pay for their maintenance.

HOUSING CONDITIONS Very little information is available regarding the current condition of housing in Foster. The previous Comprehensive Plan noted that 31% of the housing stock (468 units) was constructed prior to 1953, 48% prior to 1973, and 86% prior to 1993. Interviews with town personnel indicate that the existing homes are adequate for the existing and projected future population and that unsafe or substandard housing has not been a serious problem in Foster. AFFORDABLE HOUSING As lower incomes are the primary cause of housing cost burden among households, local economic development must be encouraged to offer work experiences and employment opportunities for residents to attain greater earnings. To this end, this plan provides a vision for economic development over the next twenty years in the Economic Development chapter.

LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOUSING PRODUCTION

LMI Needs Assessment Foster has much work to do to meet the statewide mandate of the LMI Housing Act. In its Affordable Housing Plan adopted in 2004 and revised in 2006, the town expected 181 deed- restricted affordable LMI housing units were needed to meet the mandate by 2025 when it had an existing supply of 40. As mentioned previously, the LMI need in 2016 was 176 and the existing supply was 36.

The supply of LMI housing for the elderly has remained constant since the LMI Housing Act was passed and is fully contributed by Hemlock Village. Originally comprised of three buildings with eight units in each, a fourth building with six units was constructed less than a decade later in 1989. No further additions or construction has since occurred however. As of 2016, Hemlock Village had a waiting list of almost 30 housing requests and at the same time was the only local opportunity for senior residents with disabilities to maintain a certain level of independence after choosing to leave their private home. These indicate a definite need to develop more affordable senior, including disabled senior, housing in Foster. A failure to respond to this need could impact the wellbeing of elderly residents as more seniors would attempt to maintain their existing lifestyle without a sufficient alternative available to them. It could also stagnate the local housing market due to a limited number of homes being available for sale to relocating and first-time homeowners.

In contrast, the supply of deed-restricted affordable LMI housing for non-elderly, non-family households has fluctuated from a low of five units in 2009 to a high of 11 units in the following year and continuing into 2013. As of 2015, the town supplies six units for other LMI

Implementation Program Page 125 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan housing needs. No progress has been made in creating a supply of deed-restricted affordable LMI housing units for families.

In supporting the creation of an LMI housing stock equal to no less than ten percent of the number of its year-round units, the Town intends to follow the suggested dimensions, square footage of particular types of units of the Statewide Planning and Rhode Island Housing, as follows. It also expects the creation of the minimum mandate of LMI units will significantly impact the infrastructure of the Town and require an expansion of the Police Department, school system, emergency services and watershed safety. It is important to note that when watershed safety applies to the Scituate Reservoir Watershed, it becomes a concern of the state as well as the municipality. Therefore, it is the expectation of the Town that the State will provide the financial assistance needed to satisfy the mandated need.

Effectiveness of LMI Housing Strategies Senior Housing/Resale Land Trust-Housing Trust coordination Building Rehabilitation and Conversion Density Bonuses

Given the size and rural character of the town, it is incumbent upon Foster’s residents to realize the need for affordable housing and to aid the town in its efforts to add to its existing deed-restricted affordable LMI housing stock. The Foster Affordable Housing Board will be the driving force in community outreach, educational opportunities and supporting project developments.

In this plan, as in prior plans, Foster has sought to demonstrate that it intends to develop the necessary units of LMI housing to meet the mandate of the LMI Housing Act. The Town has already adopted zoning changes to allow for density bonuses in the residential compound and multi-unit areas. An ongoing review of zoning at this juncture in time is consistent with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. As the elderly have been identified as experiencing greater cost burden locally than families or others, priority will be given to the construction of housing for the elderly, including those with one or more disabilities.

The Town does not intend, however, to limit the rehabilitation, conversion or the senior resale strategies noted in previous plans.

LMI Production Plan In considering the noted limitation of public infrastructure, the Affordable Housing Board has identified nine sites which are most likely to allow for future affordable housing through development, in-fill, redevelopment and/or remediation. Nevertheless, there are many challenges these sites present. An appropriate expansion of services will be needed and it would be likely beneficial for future LMI units to be located in close proximity to major routes such as routes 6, 101 and 102. This will allow LMI unit occupants closer access to economic opportunities as the town and this plan support economic development in commercial nodes along these same roadways. Likewise, it would also allow closer access to the potential public transit stops for any future Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). Though these sites

Implementation Program Page 126 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan are included in this plan however, the Housing Board and the Town recognize and fully respect that the individual owner(s) of any of these sites must also be supportive of these proposals.

Site One (Plat 12, Lot 70) - the Wright Auto Body property is presently owned by Coastal Atlantic, LLC. and is located on Mill Road. The property is approximately 30 acres and would require a well and septic system upgrade. The property is in uplands adjacent to the Mill River, which feeds the Scituate Water Supply system. The property likely requires site remediation and federal and state brownfield funds would be sought to complete the necessary remediation work.

Site Two (Plat 20, Lot 20) -the Wieselquist property is an undeveloped parcel of approximately 43 acres and is located west of Route 94 on North Road. The property has no buildings and a portion of it has been excavated for gravel removal. This property is considered suitable for the construction of a 30 LMI unit senior housing facility called for in the first strategy due to the following reasons: it is not a brownfield site; it is centrally located within the Town and it is near Hemlock Village. This last reason potentially supports shared services between the facilities and can allow for visitation of residents from either facility to the other.

Site Three (Plat 14, Lot 98) - the Jade Real Estate property consists of a manufacturing building and is located on Route 6 east of Route 94. It has been on and off the real estate market for approximately 9 years and is approximately 20 acres. The property contains a building, a water supply well and a septic system. The building would require an expansion to facilitate a development project but could provide community rooms for residents. A site assessment would need to be performed on the property and there may be some site remediation required. If that is the case, federal and state brownfield funds would be sought to complete the necessary remediation work.

Site Four (Plat 13, Lot 27) - the Hopscotch property consists of approximately 14 acres of real estate containing a public supply well that serviced the restaurant once located at the site. Today the only visible reminder of the restaurant (or any other business previously located on the site) is the “Hopscotch” sign located close to its boundary with Route 6. There is a single-family residence located on the back of the site, and access to the residence is gained from Snagwood Road. At present, it is not known if remediation is necessary at the site.

Site Five (Plat 14, Lot 100) - the Muba Realty property located on Route 6 east of Route 94 was at one time a motel and consists of six apartments and one duplex home. Through subsidized rehabilitation or a total demolition and rebuilding, this site could offer several LMI family units. The property is 25 acres and there is a possibility of developing a further portion of the acreage in the rear of the property. A site evaluation would be needed to determine the number of units the property could properly contain however, as there are concerns regarding wetlands and the Scituate Reservoir Watershed.

Site Six (Plat 10 Lot 37) - the Stone House Motel property is located on Route 6 west of Route 94 and contains approximately 6 acres of real estate. The property is an operational motel

Implementation Program Page 127 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan that provides rooms to the public. Through subsidized rehabilitation or through a total demolition and rebuilding, the property could provide several LMI units.

Site Seven (Plat 10 Lot 43) - the CLM Realty property located on Danielson Pike contains approximately 8 acres of real estate and was recently rezoned to General Business Mixed Use (GBM). The zoning regulations allow for both commercial and residential development on the site. Though this is a possible LMI housing site location, the current owner presently has a conceptual design for a commercial development without a residential component.

Site Eight (Plat 17 Lot 41) - the Rhode Island State Police facility is located on Winsor Road and contains approximately 13 acres of real estate. The land and existing buildings could accommodate residential housing units that could be developed or redeveloped following the relocation of the training site. The main building is approximately 7,732 square feet, and could be used to generate approximately seven 1,104 square feet LMI family units.

Site Nine (Plat 18 Lot 10) - the old Fogarty School (also known as the Nike site) is located off Theodore Foster Road (itself off of Route 101) and consists of approximately 6.7 acres of real estate. At present, there is one building on the property which houses some of the educational staff offices for the Foster-Glocester Regional School District. At present, the property faces water contamination which requires remediation. Federal and state brownfield funds would be sought to complete the necessary remediation work. Density Bonuses: All properties zoned Agricultural/Residential (A/R) will qualify for the residential compound density bonus defined in the Zoning Ordinance’s article on residential compounds if they meet four requirements. The requirements are: a total area of 30.00 or more acres, a minimum linear frontage of 300 feet, no record of subdivision of the property since February 1998 and a record of ownership by the current owner for a period of no less than five years.

The Town had previously provided density bonuses for multi-unit structures in areas adjacent to commercial zoning on the Town’s major roads. The approximate acreages under consideration for rezoning include: • 350 acres along Route 101 (Hartford Pike) in the northern portion of the town • 110 acres along Route 6 (Danielson Pike) near its junction with Shippee Schoolhouse Road • 500 acres along Route 6 (both east and west of Route 94) • 100 acres along Route 102 (Plainfield Pike) in the southern portion of the town

These areas, particularly Route 6 (and Route 101 to a lesser degree) are also the commercially zoned areas of Foster. Ideally, higher density residential zoning could provide buffer zones between commercial areas and residential areas of Foster. These areas comprise a significant number of acres; but, like much of Foster, they face high water tables, hydric soils, shallow bedrock and/or wetlands. This mirrors the difficulty of developing land anywhere in Foster.

On Route 102, there is an area that could accommodate affordable housing units adjacent to the neighborhood commercial zone. There is a second area adjacent to the Route 101 neighborhood commercial zone that could accommodate affordable housing units. A third

Implementation Program Page 128 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan area along the Route 6 General Business Mixed Use could accommodate affordable housing units.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES AND ACTIONS

Goals Objectives Policies Actions

Implementation Program Page 129 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Coordinate with the Rhode Island Historic Preservation and Heritage Commission.

Implementation of Protect existing Continue discussions the General Business occupied housing in with HousingWorksRI. Mixed Use District our historic villages by recognizing them as affordable housing Identify and apply for resources. Review and update grants to develop an relevant statistical ongoing housing data annually database. Achieve balanced growth that does not threaten water Review and update Meet with officials of resources (including the list of potential the Providence Water rivers and streams affordable housing Increase affordable Resources Authority. that serve the sites annually housing units Scituate Reservoir without sacrificing Watershed. Foster’s rural Encourage affordable character Coordinate actions of housing as part of the Planning, Zoning residential Develop residential and Housing Boards compounds. compounds. by scheduling an annual joint meeting Submit updated plan Attract established, to town council reputable developers Communicate with annually. of affordable housing town residents to Foster. regarding challenges and opportunities for Secure access to expansion and affordable home improvement of repair, water and affordable housing septic upgrades, heating assistance and maintenance to support residents in existing housing.

Implementation Program Page 130 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Complete feasibility study of Hemlock Village expansion.

Annual review of building permits as Evaluate the option part of statistical of a second senior Encourage housing Add units of senior update housing location. rehabilitation, housing. preservation and development that Coordinate give our citizens an Conduct a study of Improve access to information gathering opportunity to grow, the demand for housing for younger with similar mature and retire in housing by residents. communities and Foster. demographic group. state resources such as RI Housing and HousingWorksRI. Conduct annual review of building permits as part of statistical update

Implementation Program Page 131 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Continue discussions with RI Housing, Establish periodic legislators and others meetings with regarding the Revisions in the law legislators and relationship between to expand the related state development and definition of officials, protecting the Effect changes in affordable housing to organizations and watersheds. the state’s encompass existing boards, including affordable housing housing in the town House and Senate, RI that requires Housing, Water statute to recognize Coordinate with improvement. Resources Authority, the particular other western and and Historic demographic, northern RI Preservation. topographic and communities to economic Revisions in the law educate and characteristics of to balance persuade legislators the state’s rural development with Establish and officials to communities. environmental communications expand the definition concerns. strategy with town of affordable housing residents and to encompass promote their existing housing in involvement in the the town that require effort. improvement.

Implementation Program Page 132 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM

Implementation Program Page 133 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

NATURAL RESOURCES OPEN SPACE & RECREATION Goals, Objectives, Policy and Action Short Term Mid-Term Long Term Responsibility 0-3 years 4-6 years 10. years 1. Protect and preserve environmental resources of the town Objective Develop Conservation Policies to -protect water quality -protect scenic quality -protect wildlife habitat -preserve open space Policy Develop Conservation Zoning to incorporate siting and design standards based on environmental consideration of each parcel. Support taxation policies to preserve forestry, agricultural and open space land use. Action Planning Department Revise specific regulations for Planning Board Conservation Zoning to protect Town Council -agricultural land X Town Solicitor -water resources C o n s e r v a t i o n -forests and wildlife habitat Commission -open space and scenic views -natural topography of land, and other valuable natural resources. 2. Allow for responsible and reasonable development and consistent with environmental protection. Objective Develop Policies to promote responsible use of resources Policy Develop policies for siting and delivery of energy sources which are consistent with the health and safety of Foster residents.

Implementation Program Page 134 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Action Planning Department Form a committee or study group to Planning Board develop policies for siting and delivery of X X X Zoning Board energy sources which are consistent with C o n s e r v a t i o n the health and safety of Foster residents. Commission Land Trust, Town Council

HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Goals, Objectives, Policies and Actions Short Term Mid-Term Long Term Responsibility 0-3 years 4-6 years 11. years 3. To preserve and protect the integrity of the historic, cultural and scenic sites, districts and landscapes which provide Foster with its historical, cultural and scenic identity and integrate such preservation and protection by diminishing the potential adverse effects of future growth and development; thereby maintaining and enhancing the quality of life in Foster for residents and visitors alike. Objectives The establishment of a Historic District Commission for dealing with issues regarding the protection of, and any future development within the Town’s Historic Districts listed in the National Register of Historic Places to wit: the villages of Clayville, Hopkins Mills, Foster Center and Moosup Valley. The continued preservation and protection of all Town-owned historic, cultural and scenic sites from adverse effects of on-going development Policies The incorporation of historic, cultural and scenic preservation into overall planning and development considerations, particularly economic development activities and the approval of new development projects near historic, cultural or scenic resources. To encourage the on going programs of the Foster Preservation Society. To encourage the preservation of privately owned historic buildings, cultural sites, and scenic areas.

Implementation Program Page 135 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

To encourage the continuation of community- wide celebrations such as Foster Old Home Days To encourage the continuation of cultural and community activities such as Swamp Meadow Community Theatre All community commissions and agencies should recognize the contribution of historic resources and landscape to the character of the town. Action P r e s e r v a t i o n Evaluate new planned development and X X Society subdivision development regarding impacts to P l a n n i n g our historic buildings, cultural and scenic areas. Department Planning Board Land Trust C o n s e r v a t i o n Commission Develop special area management (SAM) plans P l a n n i n g for the historic villages, including but not limited Department to Foster Center, Clayville, Moosup Valley and X X Planning Board Hopkins Mills; providing for the preservation and P r e s e r v a t i o n enhancement of each village’s unique identity Society and character. C o n s e r v a t i o n Commission Town Council Work with the Foster Preservation Society to Planning Board develop a design guidelines manual for X P l a n n i n g renovations to historic properties, and work with Department the Society to distribute the manual to local Zoning Board property owners. Building Official Review and update the Town’s sign ordinance to Planning Board include standards for cottage industry signs, X P l a n n i n g commercial and industrial signs and signage Department within our historic districts / hamlets. Zoning Board P r e s e r v a t i o n Society Work with the Foster Land Trust on the C o n s e r v a t i o n acquisition of historic, cultural and scenic X X X Commission easements as a way to preserve historic, cultural Town Council and scenic resources. P r e s e r v a t i o n Society Work with the Foster Preservation Society to Town Council design and distribute interpretive brochures of X X P l a n n i n g Foster’s cultural landscape. Department

Implementation Program Page 136 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Work with the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission and the P r e s e r v a t i o n Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, as well as X X X Society neighboring communities to establish a regional C o n s e r v a t i o n approach to historic, cultural and scenic asset Commission protection and promotion. Planning Board will develop a rating system as a Planning Board component of the performance standards for new X X P l a n n i n g developments in historically and visually Department significant areas. Complete the scenic road loops which connect X X P r e s e r v a t i o n with the scenic routes of neighboring towns. Society DPW Implement the recommendations contained in the 1982 RI Historic Preservation Commission Survey including the following: a)Map archaeological sites as constraints to development and apply criteria for their P r e s e r v a t i o n consideration in any new development projects Society which would be located on them or in close X X X P l a n n i n g proximity to them. Department b)Maintain and continuously update a Town Council collection of restoration reference material in the Planning Board town libraries or at the Planning Office for use of the community with the aid of the Foster Preservation Society. c)Continue efforts to record information concerning Foster’s historic resources, farms, mills and cemeteries. Implement conservation zoning so as to balance P l a n n i n g new development with the preservation of X X Department historic and scenic resources. Planning Board C o n s e r v a t i o n Commission Enact protective ordinances for stone walls and X P l a n n i n g trees within the road R-O-W. Department Planning Board Town Council Establish standards for Town improvements such DPW as pavement, width and drainage which will not X Building Official adversely affect scenic road character.

PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES

Implementation Program Page 137 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Goals, Objectives, Policies and Action S h o r t Mid- L o n g Responsibility Term Term Term 0-3 years 4-6 years 12. years 1. To promote orderly maintenance, growth and consolidation of existing and proposed public and private services and facilities consistent with community needs, resources and character. PROTECTIVE SERVICES Objective Safe and adequate public protection vehicles and equipment, including police, fire and rescue apparatus. Acquisition and financing of suitable land for community for services including but not limited to relocation of the Police Department. Well-trained and equipped police, fire and rescue personnel, paid and volunteer. An informed citizenry that actively helps to prevent and mitigate emergency situations. Safe and adequate supplies of drinking water for Town residents and watersheds end-users. Efficient and effective response to environmental hazards, civic emergencies, and other threats requiring immediate action. Policy Promote public safety and protection of environmental resources in potentially hazardous situations. Action Town Council Update and implement a realistic schedule Planning Board of repairing and/or replacing needed public Engineering Board service vehicles and equipment such as X X X Police Department police, fire and rescue apparatus; improve DPW efficiency and upgrade specialization Treasurer among the private fire and rescue organizations; coordinate allocation of capital funds through the Engineering Board.

Implementation Program Page 138 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Evaluate and plan for relocation of police Town Council department to more efficient and up-to- X X Planning Board date facility by 2022. Planning Department Treasurer Police Department Develop and implement regular training schedules for police, fire and rescue Police Department personnel; encourage coordination of Engineering board volunteer recruitment and retention among X X X Town Council fire and rescue organizations; develop non- EMA financial incentives to encourage police officers and fire and rescue volunteers to remain in their positions. Provide training, information and EMA guidelines for the public concerning proper Engineering Board use and maintenance of wood stoves, first X X X Conservation Commission responder skills, safe storage of firearms, Planning Department proper driveway access for emergency Police Department vehicles, safe forest management, healthy water and septic systems, and other safety issues. Conduct regular joint training with other municipalities, State and Federal entities related to the Town’s Emergency Operations Plan, Emergency Management X X X EMA Agency, and Scituate Reservoir Hazardous Material Spill Contingency Plan; and p a r t i c i p a t e i n o t h e r e m e r g e n c y management activities. PUBLIC WORKS AND UTILITIES Objectives Safe and adequate roads and bridges for residents, businesses and through traffic. Clean and healthy environment for Town residents, wildlife and natural vegetation and protection of watersheds. Improved rates of recycling and waste diversion. Sustainable and environmentally sound consumption and production of energy. Policy Ensure adequate bridge and road quality while protecting environmental quality and rural character.

Implementation Program Page 139 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Ensure the protection of water supply and environmental quality through safe management of wastewater, storm water and solid waste. Ensure consumers’ needs for energy are balanced with environmental concerns. Action DPW Update and implement an ongoing five X X X Planning Department year plan for road and bridge maintenance. Planning Board Determine the viability of maintaining DPW existing gravel roads, and investigate X X X Conservation Commission “greener” alternatives to asphalt surfaces. Promote the installation and maintenance Conservation Commission of rain barrels, rain gardens, native species X X X Land Trust propagation, and other water conservation measures. Perform annual inspections of all Town above-ground and underground storage X X X DPW tanks (AST’s and UST’s) to verify tank integrity, as required by State law. Ensure Town Ordinances, Zoning and Subdivision Regulations meet or exceed Planning Department current standards for setbacks for Planning Board protection of watersheds, wells, septic X X X Town Council systems, and wetlands; incorporate Zoning Board updated standards for water run-off, water Conservation Commission supply and wastewater disposal into requirements for community development. Actively coordinate with Providence Water Town Council Supply Board and local communities to X X X DPW uphold Scituate Reservoir Hazardous Zoning Board Material Spill Contingency Plan. Planning Board Planning Department Actively seek compensation through the Town Council Providence Water Supply Board for the X X X Treasurer community’s active work in conserving the Tax Assessor State’s water quality. Promote recycling efforts through public education and improved availability of Conservation Commission transfer station facilities and recycling X X X DPW tools, including but not limited to specialty Town Council item disposal, consumer information, recycling bins, and composters.

Implementation Program Page 140 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Work with the RIRRC to identify ways DPW that Foster residents contribute to source Conservation Commission reduction and waste diversion (such as Town Council “green” consumer habits, composting, and avoidance of yard waste) and additional means of improving overall diversion rates to 50%. Develop appropriate zoning and permitting Planning Board regulations for the siting and operation of Police Department residential and commercial scale energy X X Zoning Board production (such as wind, solar, Building Zoning Official geothermal or water power). Town Council TOWN OFFICES, SITES AND SERVICES Objectives Ongoing access to and use of Town House, Eddy Building, libraries and other historic buildings; and public access to Jerimoth Hill, land in the public trust, and local sites of natural and cultural interest. Ready citizen access to public officials and services Safe and appropriate disposition of areas of Town associated with former NIKE missile site. Enhanced public recreational facilities and activities Acquisition and financing of suitable land for community for services including but not limited to Town offices and recreation Policy Protect and maintain historic buildings, cultural sites, and natural landmarks. Responsibly manage potential risks and appropriate public use of land and buildings Provide local opportunities for citizens of all ages to participate in wholesome recreation Action DPW Maintain buildings in accordance with X X X Town Council preservation standards and as funds permit. Preservation Society

Implementation Program Page 141 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Support the work of the Preservation Town Council Society, Land Trust, Conservation Planning Board Commission, Historical Society, and other X X X Planning Department local public and private agencies dedicated Zoning Board to preservation of and public access to DPW natural and cultural sites. Building Official Ensure availability to Town officials, X X X Town Council information, and services. Town Officials Maintain ongoing communications with Army Corps of Engineers, RI State Police, Planning Department DEM, Abbey Lane residents, Foster- Town Council Glocester Regional School System and any Planning Board other appropriate entity to develop and X X Conservation Commission implement plans for new wellwater and Building Official wastewater systems, asbestos abatement / DPW Director demolition of deteriorating buildings, and/ or relocation of functions associated with site; work with ACE to identify and remediate sources of contamination at the site, as necessary. Develop youth athletic fields and facilities; Recreation, Town Council, support and enhance senior programs; X X X P l a n n i n g D e p a r t m e n t , promote Town-based activities. Planning Board, DPW SCHOOLS Objectives High quality public education Safe and adequate facilities for students, staff and visitors. Acquisition and financing of suitable land for community for services including but not limited to school administration offices and school recreation. Policy Provide an excellent, locally responsive public education. Action Continually evaluate and implement best X X X School Committee practices in educational curricula, School Department teaching, and administration Monitor changes in student demographics School Committee to ensure appropriate classroom space and X X X School Department educational services at all levels.

Implementation Program Page 142 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Maintain cooperative administrative School Committee structure and active participation in Foster/ X X X School Department Glocester Regional School System. Town Council Finance Maintain buildings, athletic fields, repair/ X X X School Committee replace playground facilities and School Department equipment, and provide adequate DPW educational equipment and furnishings. Determine and implement upgrade of School Committee shared administrative offices through School Department rehabilitation of wastewater, heating and X Planning Department building facilities at current site Building Official (intermediate time frame). Treasurer, DPW Evaluate and plan for relocation of School Committee administrative offices to more suitable and X School Department up-to-date facility by 2022. Town Council DPW HUMAN SERVICES Objectives Assist in meeting basic needs of Town residents for food, clothing, shelter, and transportation Provide essential transportation for seniors and other eligible residents. Provide energy assistance to eligible residents. Policy Provide needed assistance to eligible Town residents to preserve health, welfare and quality of life. Action Collect and distribute food, clothing, D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n household items, gift cards, school X X X Services with assistance from supplies and other basics secured through other departments private donations and State and local social service agencies. Provide emergency food and clothing X X X D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n based on apparent need. Services Evaluate eligibility of clients seeking D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n ongoing assistance, and assist in applying Services for programs, including federal and state X X X Tax Assessor aid programs, energy programs, property tax relief, job search, budgeting, elder WAF??? affairs, transportation, and others.

Implementation Program Page 143 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Act as liaison and referral to private, State X X X D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n and Federal social service providers. Services Secure funding for purchase/lease/share of X X X D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n vehicle and funding for driver. Services Town Council Secure funding to enable providing energy X X X D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n assistance to eligible residents. Services Planning Department Town Council CDBG Grants X X X Planning Department D e p a r t m e n t o f H u m a n Services Town Council

TRANSPORTATION Goals, Objectives, Policy and Action S h o r t Mid- L o n g Responsibility Term Term Term 0-3 years 4-6 years 13. years 4. Retain the rural character of all paved and unpaved roads while ensuring that all roads are safe Objectives Designate and nominate 5 scenic roads over the next 10 years Annually publish the 5-year Road Improvement Plan Policies Scenic roads, both those nominated for State designation and those chosen for local listing, should be protected through improvement standards implemented at the local level and through a Conservation Zoning Rural character can be retained with design standards related to road safety, width, geometry, drainage and roadside vegetation Manage traffic patterns in areas designated for commercial development

Implementation Program Page 144 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Coordinate with RIDOT design staff and discuss state projects in public forums with the Town Council, Planning Board, Conservation Commission and other Town agencies on a regular basis to ensure that the needs of the Town are met. Examples include Rte 94, Rte 102 and Rte 6 improvements Town staff should coordinate bridge reconstruction Actions DPW Implement and fund the 5-year Road Planning Department Improvement Plan for road upgrading and X X X Planning Board maintenance. This plan provides for the Town Council paving of certain important connector roads, allowing others to remain as unpaved rural and scenic roads. Re-evaluate and update the 5-year Road DPW Improvement Plan and projections for X X X Planning Board funding every year. Planning Department Identify which roads will be used by low density residential growth, where rural road widths and pavement type should be X X X DPW maintained, and which roads should become well-traveled connectors and be improved Update scenic roads itemized in the Foster Preservation Society Historic/Scenic inventory and nominate Conservation Commission the most important of these roads for State X X DPW Scenic Road designation using the RIDOT Planning Department criteria for such nominations, including scenic roads that are scheduled for State funded improvement projects. Adopt design standards for roads that X Planning Department preserve the rural character and provide DPW, Town Council safe travel. Explore the formulation of a Town Traffic X X To w n C o u n c i l , P o l i c e Court D e p a r t m e n t , L e g a l Department 5. Establish and promote a trail system utilizing alternative routes (hiking/ bridle trails) primarily along rural roads through Foster and connecting scenic areas, hamlets and neighboring communities.

Implementation Program Page 145 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Objective Complete X miles of multi-use (hiking/ bridle) trails. Policy Ensure that scenic roads which form public linkages for the North – South Trial System are upgraded in a sensitive fashion following design standards which retain their scenic integrity and allow an appropriate trail function as well as vehicle use. Action Land Trust Complete Scenic Roads project including X Conservation Commission bicycling and walking paths DPW Encourage bicycle friendly and pedestrian Planning Department friendly provisions in both residential and X X X Planning Board commercial development. Town Council Land Trust Conservation Commission

NATURAL HAZARDS AND RESILIENCY Goals, Objectives, Policy and Action S h o r t Mid- L o n g Responsibility Term Term Term 0-3 years 4-6 14. years years 6. To minimize the social and economic loss or hardships incurred by Foster residents and business owners resulting from natural hazardous events. Objectives Educate Foster residents on how to prepare for natural hazards as it relates to their own health and safety. Educate Foster business owners on how to prepare for natural hazards as it relates to their businesses, and their own health and safety. Increase local, state and national responses to natural hazards within the Foster community

Implementation Program Page 146 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Increase training of hired personnel and volunteers regarding proper response criteria to natural hazards. (Example: Training regarding NIMSCAST) Policies Not to allow development within the National Flood Plain zones (as shown on the NFIP Maps issued March 2009). Work in conjunction with local, state and national organizations to increase both responses to natural hazards, and training of hired personnel and volunteers. Action Planning Board To identify the types of natural hazards Planning Department which have and can occur in the Foster X community including but not limited to hurricanes, fires and winter storms etc. To update and revise the Foster Local Planning Department Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan (Natural Foster EMA Hazard Plan), Emergency Operations X Planning Board Plan, the Continuity of Operations Town Council Planning, and the Foster MED Plan, with Various Department heads the assistance of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Services, and the Rhode Island Department of Health. To continue the education of Incident X X X To w n C o u n c i l , P l a n n i n g Command Services for all hired Department, Fire Department, personnel and volunteers Ambulance Corp, EMA, DPW, Police Department To hold at least quarterly training programs for the Foster Shelter Team, to X X X EMA keep them up to date on statewide requirements To continue to update and revise the X X X DPW, Planning Department, Foster five (5) year road plan Planning Board To continue to update and revise the Foster Storm Water (Wastewater) Plan in X X X DPW, Planning Department accordance with state regulations. To develop, update, revise or obtain emergency preparedness flyers X X X EMA (information) and pass them out to Foster residents.

Implementation Program Page 147 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Develop, update and revise emergency evacuation plans for the Foster community, including the Foster School X X X EMA, School Department system, Foster residents, and provide routes (directions) to emergency community shelters.

GROWING ECONOMY Goals, Objectives, Policy and Action S h o r t Mid- L o n g Responsibility Term Term Term 0-3 years 4-6 15. years years 7. Broaden the sources of Town revenues to assure a sound financial future to achieve Town goals expressed in the Comprehensive Plan. Objectives The creation of a viable manufacturing / industrial center / park within the Foster community. To achieve the economic development goals of this plan while maintaining the compatibility and consistency with other Plan elements, and Land Use 2025. Increase the number of businesses within the Foster community. Develop an economic base capable of providing a desirable standard of living, and creating job opportunities for Foster residents. Policies Support the activities of an Economic Development Advisory Commission to explore and solicit preferred development opportunities for location in Foster and to work with successful Foster businesses, the local Chambers of Commerce and various Business Associations to further their efforts.

Implementation Program Page 148 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Encourage improvement in appearance and function of the Town’s newly created General Business Mixed Use zone along Route 6 and remaining Neighborhood Commercial Zones within the Foster Community. Actions Planning Department Develop and maintain a list of possible Town Council light industrial and commercial X Planning Board development and research facilities to attract to Foster and promote this at the state level. Designate and possibly rezone suitable X X Planning Department, Planning areas for viable manufacturing / Board commercial parks. Zoning Board, Town Council Building Official 8. Encourage commercial growth using a framework for mutual success, to develop infrastructure at the lowest possible cost, with the lowest possible environmental impact, maintaining the rural character of the town. Objectives The creation of a village center along the Route 6 corridor, to encourage a mixed use of residences and commercial entities. Policies To promote economic development sensitive to Foster’s rural and village character, and the historical, cultural and environmental resources of each. Encourage retail commercial development necessary to provide convenient services to Foster residents within the confines of existing commercially zoned areas. Encourage the continuation and growth of economic activities such as recreation, forestry, and agriculture, which are related to the natural resources of the town, and support local employment opportunities, which relate to indigenous and rural resources and occupations.

Implementation Program Page 149 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Encourage the formation of a Western Rhode Island Tourism Council and explore mutually beneficial relationships with the Blackstone Valley Tourism C o u n c i l a n d t h e N o r t h e a s t e r n Connecticut Visitors Disrict. (Take advantage of the designation of the Blackstone Valley and the Quinebaug- Shetucket Rivers National Heritage Corridors in tourism development planning) Encourage revitalization and reuse of existing commercial and industrial facilities, and encourage creative adaptive reuse(s) of the Town’s historic homes and buildings when properly zoned. Actions Develop and maintain tax incentives to Town Council assist in achieving the economic and X X Finance environmental development goals and WAF??? policies, including cottage industries. Hold seminars and field trips to attract Planning Department principals interested in rural assisted X X X Affordable Housing Board living and senior housing development Town Council and coordinate efforts with the affordable Foster Senior Housing housing program. Enact development controls and performance standards in the zoning Planning Department ordinance to mitigate conflicts between Planning Board commercial and industrial development Zoning Board and other uses. X X Town Council These include but are not limited to: Building Official -buffers to side and rear lots -landscaping; and -compliance with state and federal air, and water quality regulations. Review and update Foster’s zoning ordinance to create a set of design Planning Board standards for commercial developments Planning Department which are compatible with the Building Official surrounding neighborhood in appearance, X X Zoning Board with varied rooflines, alternative Town Council construction materials, scaled down signage etc., exploring options of using 2nd story apartments in General Business Mixed Use developments, and promoting walkability.

Implementation Program Page 150 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Work with the Foster Preservation Planning Department S o c i e t y t o i n c r e a s e e c o n o m i c X X X Planning Board development based on Foster’s history, Conservation Commission such as former stagecoach stops, inns, Town Council mills and the W3R. Update / upgrade Foster’s zoning Planning Board ordinance to facilitate the encouragement X X Planning Department of future commercial business in Foster. Town Council 9. Encourage viable and sustainable agricultural related businesses. Objectives Develop a reputation as an artist-friendly community and tourist destination. Policies Encourage compatible cottage-type industries Maintain and enhance the historical and cultural resources which contribute to the Town’s overall economic development opportunities. Actions

Implementation Program Page 151 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

HOUSING CHOICE Goals, Objectives, Policy and Action S h o r t Mid- L o n g Responsibility Term Term Term 0-3 years 4-6 16. years years 10. Increase affordable housing units without sacrificing Foster’s rural character Objectives Preservation Protect existing occupied housing in our X X X Planning Board historic villages by recognizing them as Housing Board affordable housing resources. Achieve balanced growth that does not threaten water resources (including rivers and streams that serve the Scituate Reservoir Watershed). Develop residential compounds. Attract established, reputable developers of affordable housing to Foster. Policy Implementation of the General Business Mixed Use District Review and update relevant statistical data annually. Review and update the list of potential affordable housing sites annually Coordinate actions of the Planning, Zoning and Housing Boards by scheduling an annual joint meeting. Communicate with town residents regarding challenges and opportunities for expansion and improvement of affordable housing. Actions Planning Board Coordinate with the Rhode Island X Housing Board Historic Preservation and Heritage Preservation Commission. Continue discussions with Housing X X X Housing Board Works RI Identify and apply for grants to develop Planning Dept an ongoing housing database X Tax Assessor

Implementation Program Page 152 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Meet with officials of the Providence Town Council Water Resources Authority X Treasurer Tax Assessor Encourage affordable housing as part of Planning Board residential compounds X X X Housing Board Submit updated plan to town council Housing Board annually. X X X Planning Dept Secure access to affordable home repair, Human Services water and septic upgrades, heating X X X assistance and maintenance to support residents in existing housing. 11. Encourage housing rehabilitation, preservation and development that give our citizens an opportunity to grow, mature and retire in Foster. Objectives Add units of senior housing. Improve access to housing for younger residents. Policy Annual review of building permits as part of statistical update Coordinate information, gathering with similar communities and state resources such as RI Housing and HousingWorks RI Actions Planning Dept Complete feasibility study of Hemlock X Building/Zoning Village expansion. Senior Housing Evaluate the option of a second senior Planning Dept/Board housing location. X Town Council Conduct a study of the demand for Planning Dept housing by demographic group. X Conduct annual review of building Building/Zoning permits as part of statistical update. X X X Zoning Board 12. Effect changes in the state’s affordable housing statute to recognize the particular demographic, topographic and economic characteristics of the state’s rural communities.

Implementation Program Page 153 Town of Foster, RI Comprehensive Community Plan

Objectives Revisions in the law to expand the definition of affordable housing to encompass existing housing in the town that requires improvement. Revisions in the law to balance development with environmental concerns. Policies Establish periodic meetings with legislators and related state officials, organizations and boards, including House and Senate, RI Housing, Water Resources Authority, and Historic Preservation. Establish communications strategy with town residents and promote their involvement in the effort. Actions Planning Bd/Dept Continue discussions with RI Housing, Town Council legislators and others regarding the X Housing Board relationship between development and Conservation protecting the watersheds.

Implementation Program Page 154